Looking for positive support and good advice on similar or past experiences.

[Rayman559]

I'm a 32 Hispanic male. I'm struggling with clinical depression and addiction I find it hard to believe in myself most days and to recognize my accomplishments. I've lived a fast and nowhere near healthy lifestyle. I'm looking forward too being a better person.

[Shakti111]

You are not alone. AA helped me with addiction and believing in myself. I do still struggle with anxiety and depression but it seems more manageable now that I am sober. I think because I am allowing myself to feel now without any judgment. Go easy on yourself.

[Isinatra]

🎶I second that emotion 🎶 AA helped with my dependency with alcohol and saved my life and therapy helped me with my mental health issues. HooRah!🫡

[Shakti111 in reply to Isinatra]

woohoo and a big YES to therapy.

[Isinatra in reply to Shakti111]

👍🏼😁

[Hidden]

Hello and welcome! I'm glad you have a positive outlook; that's a major part of the battle! I agree that the AA meetings can help hold you accountable and keep you on track. Having a sponsor you can turn to can also be therapeutic. I don't know this from my own experiences but I have dual diagnosis friends that struggle with their mental health and addiction. I wish you nothing but luck on this journey!

[Darkhouse]

Idk what addiction you deal w. I know AA helps a lot of peeps, but it was never my bag. The only thing that's kept me 3 years clean has been suboxone. If you suffer from alcohol or opiate addiction, there are very effective medications that can help you deal with your addictions. They always recommend support groups as well, but there are options to AA like Celebrate Recovery or a Buddhist form of AA called Refuge Recovery that all have slightly different teachings and messages. Celebrate Recovery is science-based, while Refuge Recovery follows AA's plan w a more meditative approach. You have options. I would talk w a doctor about your situation and see if a medication can help you achieve your goals.

[Rayman559 in reply to Darkhouse]

Appreciate the honesty and guidance

[Darkhouse]

If there's two things I know it's addiction and depression, lol... Any time!!!

[Sparsley32]

Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing. I think that the first step is really just stepping out on a limb and asking for some help and direction. I think first and foremost you will have to get your addiction under control because depression is more than likely to follow especially if you have clinical depression. I would for sure reach out to your PCP to maybe see what they think would be the best course of action for you. You've already made a big step today in reaching out for guidance.

[Hidden]

I’d just like to wish you the very best of luck going forward. You’ve made a huge leap in asking for positive support. Big hugs and love to you 🙏🏻🍀❤️😘xx

[SayNOtoPanic]

Prayers up to you. Hang in there. Def touch base with your PCP and maybe look into finding a therapist you are comfortable with. With a little research online you might be able to find one that has expertise in addiction and depression. Someone who will understand and support the whole picture. Maybe some meditation and positive affirmation exercises too, daily affirmation you are worthy, this too shall pass, etc