Introduction

[TRACE72]

Hi everyone,

My name is Trace and I have suffered from depression since an early age of at least 14.

I was a big one to self medicate with addictive substances and am now over 8 & a half months into recovery since admitting & accepting drug & alcohol addiction.

The most powerful lesson learnt to date is that I am not alone and there are so many people & organisations out there to help & genuinly want & do help without judgement.

Drugs & alcohol are no longer a solution for me. The solution for me although at times very difficult is to ask for help when I need it. I'm a work in progress & I need help almost on a daily basis. Talking about my "stuff" rather than sitting with it alone is so freeing! Once out of this busy mind I get onto to the things I enjoy in life!

Take care & never stop trying!

Trace

[White_Rose]

Dear Trace

Hello and welcome to Beyond Blue. Thank you for sharing your story. It's really great when we hear about people who are successfully battling their demons. We all know it's not an easy road and how our motivation changes from day to day. No matter what the particular struggle is with, we all need a helping hand.

Perhaps you would like to browse the various forums and post replies to others who are struggling. Our individual experiences are good to pass on to others. Tips from those who have 'been there' can make a huge difference in someone's life.

Good to meet you Trace.

Mary