Drug addiction is a very serious problem that afflicts many people around the world. Whatever the reasons for using drugs in the first place, it’s important to stop. Your health, your life and the happiness of your loved ones depend on it.
To serve as a fount of inspiration that absolutely anything (and everything) is possible in life, Bored Panda has compiled this list of the most spectacular, majestic and amazing transformations of people who quit doing heroin, meth, and other drugs. Take a long look at these before & after photos, share them with your friends, and let us know which transformations you feel are the most drastic. Make sure to scroll down and read our interview about drug addiction with a representative from 'Transform'. After you’re done browsing this post, have a look at our previous lists of other stunning before & after transformations of people who quit drugs, as well as what happens to people when they stop drinking alcohol.
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I'm A Living Example That Even Though I Went To Hell And Back, There Is Still Hope
I'm 30-years-old. I have been battling addiction since I started steroids when I was 19-years-old. I was in prison for 14 months in the state of Ceara in Brazil. I was raised by a fantastic family and there were no signs of this upcoming battle while growing up. I developed an addiction while competing in bodybuilding. Steriods, amphetamine, and cocaine. Last year I was smoking crack on a daily basis. I was the arrogant know-it-all type and I was quite angry, for what reason, I still don't know. But, the emptiness inside was always there until I went to rehab on 5/27/19. Today, I am 78 days sober. I'm humble, because I set my pride aside and asked for help. It saved my life
Only 78 days sober. What a transformation to health. I wish you a drug-free future, and that you will never touch any kind of drug again.
The beginning is really REALLY hard, I was told that ppl do fall off the wagon and it's just about getting yourself straightened back up when you trip. They said to expect to trip up 4 or 5 times before getting oneself situated with sobriety for the long haul. My addiction was pain pill, I took Suboxone for a year before getting off of it (that s**t is a damn nightmare to get off of even when you're doing it properly and under a Dr's care) & it's been 7 yrs. My point is that tripping up is part of it, when/if you do DON'T get down on yourself, remember that you're awesome and in control and tripping up for a day or 2 doesn't define you or your sobriety. I honestly wish you the absolute best, I'm so very happy for you and your family that you're back in control of your life.
This story stands out... because you look so much like my boyfriend who is addicted to meth. As am I. Your before picture is his spitting image. To see what a difference just 78 days can make, gives me hope. Thank-you for sharing. Congratulations, you look incredible.
Alycatstraz, sending you love and hope you way. I believe you can do it.
Load More Replies...You look amazing! I am coming up on day #4. I believe it's been the hardest 3 days of my life, but with God, all things are possible. I really wish you the best. You are in my prayers! Keep up the good work!
I’ll pray for you to stay strong, safe, and drug free. Even when you get knocked down, and you will get knocked down, keep your head up you are worth it!
You’re incredibly handsome and such a brave person to share your story. Best wishes darling~
I love that humility brought you here. It is something that so many struggle to master. Rock on and keep sharing your story so that others may see that there is hope.
I love the idea of humility. It saves so many lives. Rock on! Thank you for sharing your story so that others may know that there is hope. <3
Well done mate! You look a totally different person- not just the looks- but there is a positive vibe about that second photo that says a whole lot more, Congratulations and I wish you all the best
You’re incredibly handsome and also brave to share your story. Best wishes darling~
Thank you for the article. To know about the 20 Quotes to Inspire your life from Addiction Recovery, read drug addiction recovery quotes.
That is fantastic, it takes a hell of a lot of self strength and courage to achieve what you have!
Keep living the sober life, you are looking good and probably feel better too!
I am 66 days sober today and you look amazing. I am so happy for you. Give it to god and take it one day at a time. You got this
Congratulations.... what a beautiful story and transformation! And 5/27 is my birthday ;-)
Thank God you changed, right? Thanks for sharing that this started with steroids, because I truly hadn't heard of this one before!! Just shows how anything can go downhill if we get caught up in it. Please post pics of you on your day 365. You have life and that is great!
Keep it up! You deserve the best! God Bless. May much peace and joy be added to your life. You look awesome!
Recovery looks good on you man. Keep up the good work, one day at a time, you got this.
My son is 22 days clean today and looks so much better already! I shared your story with him ! Be proud of yourself and stay strong! Look to god for your strength! Bless you! You look awesome !
Congrats!..its phenomenal strength on your part and I'm proud of you..great job!! God Bless you always..
Wow you look great so proud of you.keep up the good work cause you look wonderful
Amazing. Very proud of you. Remember to always ask for help when it gets tough. Praying for you. 🙏🏻
Congratulations! You are brave and strong! You get a second chance, make the most of it!!
This is so awesome. I wish I could submit my before and after. 5 years clean , congratulations to everyone !!!
You are wearing recovery well. Very good looking. Congrats. Keep going. You are amazing, strong and a warrior. Oh and did I say extremely good looking. I did. You are worth it,
Awesome thing! I wish you only good for the rest of your life and hope you find the love of your life, without anger.
Thank you for sharing you are an amazing & your strength shows! Wishing you the best!
Wow your transmission is absolutely amazing! Congratulations on your 78 days!
wow so handsome. so happy he is doing well after all that hell!
You can do this. You look so good. You put weight on. It’s been 10/97 clean and sober for me. I’m making it too
I am happy for your healing. It will be ongoing. Be good to yourself.
It’s a hard battle I’ve over come myself!!!! Something I will battle for the rest of my life!!! You look very handsome!!!!
U look amazing and probably feel even better! Keep up the good work, u deserve all the glory ur going to receive from it!
Amazing! And, you are physically young enough to totally recover, and move ahead with all this experience! The muscle work you did will serve you well for the rest of your life.
AA has a two-yr benchmark for no slips; it eventually works for most members. Make it past two years; you will be on your way, able to look back and never want to return. I hope you have gotten a mentor to talk to on the phone every day, and to attend NA meetings with you. The changes in your life, especially financial, will be a huge plus. You will no longer need to know dealers or anyone else involved in the trade. If there are small groups, join one and make new friends who will support you. New friends and new activities will fill your life.
What a toll it took on that body you were trying to build. Stay strong!
No one knows what you went through to get where you are today unless they have been there, congratulations on one of the most difficult things you will ever choose to do. You look fantastic, one day at a time.
You look amazing and sound strong and enlighten. I wish you all the best in your future, you’re truly inspiring.
i actually shed tears when i saw the "after" photos. what truly handsome and beautiful people who were trapped underneath that scourge all this time. finally free from the clutches of drugs that held them hostage and in destructive bondage. love yourself. love life. you've made it. stay clean and safe for your sake. please.
So much love to you young man. You have done one of the hardest things I think you will ever have to do. I hope you carry on this path, and carry a photo of the before you asked for help. You look totally different I stared at you photos for ages. You are a very handsome man now. I bet you family is so proud of you. Keep up the good fight.
There's too many things that point to this being 2 different people to me.
your anger and emptiness may have been because deep down you realised you had lost contact with you. now you have a great chance , or have, reconnected.. and regained your personal power..
Good for you that is a hard journey and you can do this . I don’t know you but good job!
Congratulations to him on saving his life! I suspect bodybuilding can be heavy on macho behavior, which doesn't leave much room for emotional expression that might be considered "weak" or "vulnerable," and aggression/anger are often attempts to appear strong. As recorded in the documentary THE MASK YOU LIVE IN, the whim of "masculinity" (which has no actual definition, but most often is rejection of anything associated with being "feminine") isolates males, which can destroy us.
You rock and are a stunningly gorgeous young man with your whole life ahead of you! Make the best out of it as it seems you are trying to do, now!!!
Well done. Im so happy and proud of you . And man your so damn sexy! Wow!
Similar Story.. Keep Going, You look Great. It gets GOOD if we let it... 27 Years Sober now
That is great news, wonderful to hear. Long may your sobriety last (as Iggy). People do get high on Life and Love. Keep the path and stay strong. Darlene M. Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada
OMG!!! He's 30 years old?!?!? In the before picture he looks about 45!! Great transformation!! Way to go!!!!
...Going to hell and back...holy c**p, this guy is stronger now more then most of us are. Bless you and never go back to hell!
The hardest thing to do sometimes is save yourself. I wish you continued strength and courage along your journey! What an amazing accomplishment!
Congrats on (at the time i read your post) 78 days! Keep going, you can do this!
Kimberly "Ain't Nobody Got Time For That" Wilkins Overcame Her Drug Addiction
12 Years Free From Active Addiction
The picture on the left is me at 22 years old, already in my first methadone clinic. While on a cocktail of that, pills, and whiskey, discovered a windshield with my face. 15 years of alcohol and drugs. In the end, I was homeless, a thief, derelict, degrading myself, not bathing or taking care of simple hygiene. I felt hopeless and would pray to God to die in my sleep every night.
To avoid prison, I went to yet another rehab. This time I was so tired I listened. This time I tried the suggestions. I didn't believe any of it would work for me, but I didn't want to use anymore. I found a spark of hope, and eventually recovery. This isn't about willpower, weakness, or bad judgment. This is the disease of addiction.
The picture on the right is me today at 45 years old. I own a home, a car, have a family, friends, a great job, and most importantly - peace. I'm proud of the person I am today, and I never thought I'd say that. I didn't think I'd live to see 30.
I post this to hopefully give hope to any of my fellow imgurians that struggle with addiction. There IS life on the other side. There IS hope. If a junkie like me can do it, anyone can. I don't do this alone. Support is imperative, and not using dope no matter what happens
at 45 you look younger than you did from the picture on the left. great job.
It’s hard to believe that some of these transformations are real because the changes that giving up drugs have wrought are major. It just goes to show that even drastic changes are possible with the right support, a good dose of willpower and an airtight plan of action.
At The Age Of 18, I Started Injecting Heroin And Meth Into My Body
“Two years later, I was diagnosed with HIV because of my drug use.
That caused me to go further down the rabbit hole.
At age 25, on December 12th, I was left in an ally to overdose and die! .... BUT by the grace of God a woman found me and happened to have Narcan.
On December 17th, I decided to get clean.
I've now been sober for 17 months and 15 days.
I am living proof that Narcan is not enabling or a waste of money.
I am living proof that we do recover.“
My Husband And I Spent The First 15 Years Of Our Marriage In Chaos And Addiction
We went our separate paths of recovery and reunited as one force once we became healthy again. We are now 3 1/2 years clean and living life to the fullest! I thank God everyday not only for my recovery but that we were able to beat all odds and do it together
8 Months Ago I Overdosed And Almost Lost My Life. The Doctor Said He Didn’t Know How I Survived
I was in the ICU for 10 days and my face was partially paralyzed. I got out of the hospital and immediately started using again. Broken and beaten I eventually sought professional help, and after that I moved into a sober living. Today, I am 84 days sober. My face healed and my life has changed in so many ways. The journey hasn’t been perfect, but it definitely has been worth it. Show this picture to your family and friends. This is the end result of drugs. I am one of the lucky ones.
Well done! I sincerely hope that you can manage to stay clean. Never believe that you are not an addict anymore, you remain a non-using addict. I wish you a great future.
Help Guide explains that recovering drug addicts have several ways to deal with their problems, such as going through detoxification to “purge your body of drugs and manage withdrawal symptoms.”
12 Months Clean Today (27 August)
A prolific thief has turned her life around with the help of a neighbourhood officer after being told she had just 12 months to live.
Caroline Best was a heroin and crack cocaine addict and has spent the last 15 years in and out of prison, due to shoplifting to fund her addiction.
Only 12 months ago, the 36-year-old was told she had just a year to live. Her addiction had caused her heart to start failing and she was told they would be unable to operate on her until she came off the drugs.
PC Stuart Toogood from Erdington neighbourhood police team reached out to Caroline last year to try and turn her life around and ultimately save her life.
With PC Toogood’s help, Caroline attended a rehab facility last August and following an intensive programme, she is now living in a dry house and has been clean ever since - celebrating 12 months clean today (27 August).
More importantly, Caroline was told she no longer needed a heart operation as her faulty valve had mended itself due to her drastically improved lifestyle.
2 Years And 6 Months Sober Off Meth And Pills
For most of my life I struggled with addiction. Today, I am 2 years and 6 months sober off meth and pills. In recovery I got my driver's license back after 18 years. I am working full time, and next week I start college to become a drug counselor. Recovery is possible
You found a purpose, to help others recover. By helping other addicts you will also help people who are getting involved or have their lives touched by the illegal drug trade. Narco business breeds violence. Recreational drug use in the USA translates into death and sorrow in Mexico (feel free to substitute whatever countries) and this is something that SHOULD be a burden on everyone who has ever used illegal drugs.
Today I’m 6 Months Clean And I Couldn’t Be More Grateful
Last November I woke up in the hospital after finding out I had endocarditis from using heroin and meth. The Doctors couldn’t believe I was still holding on. I wasn’t supposed to make it. By the grace of God I was given a second chance. After two months of being in the hospital I got to leave healthy with a new outlook on life.
I wish you will always have the strength to never take another dose! Welcome back to living a life full of nuance.
Behavioral counseling is also important because it helps addicts understand why they use, and how they can cope with stress and their problems in a less destructive manner. In some cases, medication is a must to help manage withdrawal symptoms, while long-term follow-up prevents people from relapsing, and helps them stay sober.
Happy 13 Years Sober To Me
19 years old. I thought I was the most amazing person. I weighed about 100 pounds. I was a dick. I stole from my friends for drugs. I stole from my family for drugs. I lied. Cheated. Hurt very good people. I had no one left besides my step dad when I quit. No one believed me anymore. It was a very hard time. It's been ten years and I am ready to leave the past, in the past. I am not an ex-addict. I am not in recovery. This fall I will walk up on stage and collect my BS in accountancy. I have accomplished so much from that person I was 13 years ago. I am a whole, strong, and amazing person and I am damn proud of myself
What 5 Years Clean From Heroin Looks Like
I've Been Clean For 2 Years And 8 Months
It started with pills, mainly percocet when I was 21. I was really sick one day and a friend gave me heroin. I started shooting it at 24. I tried meth for the first time at 25. I was shooting them both in no time. Over the next 3 years I overdosed 8 times. If I wasn't homeless, I was living at a trap house with no electricity or running water with a 61-year-old man who was on disability and sold meth. In and out of jail constantly for possession, identity theft etc. I used needles I found in the bottom of a shopping cart full of trash. I didn't care. I was 100 lbs. I hated myself and I truly wanted to die. I went to prison. I did 15 1/2 months on 18. I got clean. I'm 30-years-old now, I've been clean for 2 years and 8 months, and I have a 6,5-month-old baby girl, and a great fiance. Finally, as I lay here breastfeeding my beautiful baby I can say I love myself and I enjoy life now without heroin or meth
Resources to Recover argues that there are 5 major mental health benefits to giving up drugs and alcohol. These benefits are enhanced mental clarity, reduced risk of mental health issues, increased self-esteem, improved memory and better relationships with family and friends.
Sober 20 Years Next Month
This is me in dec 1995. This is me in dec 2017. I overcame addiction, homelessness, and a history of incarceration.
I Am 4 Years Clean From Drugs
As Of Today, I Am 4 Years Clean From Drugs. I Have A Career, A House, A Dog, And A Fiancé. It Was A Struggle But It Is Definitely Worth It. Stay Strong!
The Big One Year
I was one of those addicts that nobody believed would get clean. It’s beyond me that I am sitting here today, laying out at a pool mind you, with a YEAR! A year without a sip, a hit, a pill, a puff, nothing. Absolutely nothing. To be honest, I didn’t think I could do it, the amount of times I’ve been done or scared out of my mind... but I’ve stayed clean knowing nothing will get better if I picked up. Through the support of so many, my program, and my spiritual practice I am here. The photos show a glimpse of the journey. Of the pain, to the joy I get to experience today.
Meanwhile, Guy Counseling writes that stopping using drugs and alcohol leads to having more energy, being able to focus more, improving self-image, as well as the quality of your sleep. In fact, it’s obvious that the benefits of quitting heavily outweigh the cons. It’s enough to take a look at the faces of those who stopped using drugs just to see how big a difference sobriety really makes.
The Picture On The Left Is When I Overdosed From Shooting Fentanyl. I Had A Heart Attack In An Applebee’s Bathroom
I spent six weeks in the hospital after that. Two weeks in a coma, two weeks learning how to walk again, and two weeks in the psych ward because of how suicidal I was. I’m ashamed to admit it, but I still used again after that. One day I just couldn’t take it anymore. I called a friend who I knew was sober and told him I was willing to do ANYTHING. My friend took me through the 12 steps and I changed my life. For anyone out there who is hopeless, look at me. On August 9th I celebrated one year clean
Two Years Sober
My Mugshot From Two Years Ago Following A Massive Pcp/Benzo Overdose And Before Homelessness And A Trip To Prison. I'm Now Two Years Sober, Living A Wonderful Life And Happier Than I Ever Thought I'd Be!
By The Grace Of God... I’ve Made It 4 Years
My past made me who I am but I’m never looking back. This mugshot was a painful reminder of despair. Anyone struggling, please know it only gets better! Life is a gift don’t waste it!
Ben Campbell from the ‘Transform’ drug policy foundation based in the United Kingdom told Bored Panda about their take on drug addiction.
When asked what the main reasons that people turn to drugs, Campbell had this to say: “Reasons for people using drugs are vast and complex, however it could be boiled down to people wanting to feel 'good' or to feel 'less bad'. Regardless of why people use drugs, the current system of prohibition makes the risks and harms of using drugs much worse.”
6 Years Clean
7 Months Alcohol And Heroin Free
There is such a lot of love emanating from that smile! Wonderful picture.
The Mug Shot Was My Lowest Point; Living On The Streets Using Heroin And Meth Daily
It was on May 3, 2018 that I was arrested and pulled out of my addiction. Recovery not only feels good, but looks good
“Our current laws have failed to reduce drug use, and have actually led to record number of drug-related deaths, and leaves many more at risk of great harm. The best way to reduce the potential harm from drug use is to legalize and regulate drugs,” Campbell gave ‘Transform’s’ opinion on the matter. “Legal regulation means controlled, not increased, availability, with tight controls on what can be sold, where it can be sold, and to whom. This also vastly reduces drug-related harms. Under prohibition, there are no such controls.”
Today, I Have 61 Days Free From All Mood And Mind Altering Substances
I’m 28 years old and I have struggled with my addiction from a pretty early age. I seemed to enjoy the effects produced by adderall at the age of 8-years-old, which would only progress to a very dark meth and heroin addiction in my later years. I’ve been hospitalized countless times, been to jail, and lived in hell - literally. I COULD NOT STOP chasing dope for one hour, let alone entertain the thought of going to a detox program. I dragged my family and everyone I loved down with me. Today, I have 61 days free from all mood and mind altering substances. I can finally see a light at the end of my madness with the help of a sponsor and meetings. My record is in the process of being expunged and I’ve started Hep C treatment as a result of that way of life. I’m so grateful and hope this will help anyone still struggling
Also Clean Off Heroin, 18 Months
The most important things to me are having sober people around me as support, the 12 step program and a higher power. Those 3 things have been my key to success.
He Was Drug Addicted And Found Sobriety In 2011. Now He’s Has Founded This Nonprofit Which Seeks To Help People That Are Just Like He Was
“Other countries such as Portugal have had enormous success at reducing drug-related harms by treating it as a health issue by decriminalizing people who use drugs,” he added. “The UK desperately needs to decriminalize people who use drugs and regulation of the drug market if we want to reverse record levels of drug-related deaths and drug-related harms.”
Been A Long Road To Recovery, In More Ways Than One. But! 4 Years Clean From Meth
I Have Been In Recovery For A Year And A Half
This was what I looked like, daily, for years. This is what my husband dealt with. This is what my little girls walked in on. This is what my family and friends saw, on the rare occasions I left the house. I was SICK. I was DYING. I was so far gone I thought I could NEVER recover. I was so lost I couldn't imagine a life without using. I just wanted to die. I didn't realize I was hardly alive
5 Years Clean From Drugs
My wife and I when we were in active addiction, vs. Us in april 2017. We now both have over five years clean from drugs and alcohol and we have a 3 year old girl. Life has been challenging but compared to our old lives, we are quite literally living a dream
at first i thought it was a gender Transformation, until i scrolled down
Today I Have 1 Year Clean And Sober
Things Could Have Worked Out Differently For Me
At the age of 28 I was arrested for 15 felonies and faced 5 years in prison. This mug shot is a reminder of how quickly my life could spiral out of control if I decide to pick up drugs again. My sobriety date is November 19, 2013 and it’s the most important date in the world to me. In recovery I learned how to love myself and how to love other people. Today I work as a substance abuse counselor and it’s the most rewarding job in the world. I am forever grateful for another chance at life. The picture on the right is who I am today. A person who worked very hard to get where they are. I am worth it. We are all worth it
1.5 Years Sober
I Am 1.5 Years Sober From Meth And Have Never Felt More Fulfilled And Happier In Life. I Found Myself After Having Lost Myself For So Long
Inspiring Maddi. Well Done
During addiction vs being sober.
1 year 2 months and 25 days clean!
Heroin And Meth
My Main Drugs Were Heroin And Meth. I Got Arrested One Night In September 2012 And That Night My World Came Crashing Down While At The Same Time Opening Up. I Fell To My Knees That Night Alone And Broken And In That Time A Peace And Truth Rushed Into My Life That Gave Me A Path To Find Sobriety For Good A Few Months Later.
its scary that you have to break down and be at your lowest to make a change. I hope you stay in a good path.
An Update On My Recovery From Meth. 5 Years Today!
We Do Recover
She does look incredible in the after pic... and I'm not trying to take anything away from the journey or triumph, but you can see the filter.
I Spent The Last 4 Years In And Out Of Rehabs, Detox Centers, Halfway Houses, And Jail
My Name is Alana. My clean date is 04/05/18. I spent over 10 years in active addiction. I spent the last 4 years in and out of rehabs, detox centers, halfway houses, and jail. I lost two marriages due to my addiction. I ruined all of my relationships. I ended up losing my children. I lost my home and all my material possessions. Everything I loved or valued meant nothing when it was a choice between them or the drugs. I ended up homeless with a needle in my arm and not a penny to my name - doing whatever it took to get one more. I was looking at time in prison and still couldn’t stop using heroin and meth. I got sepsis and almost died, then got high the next day. I was hopeless and just wished I would die. 16 months ago, I checked myself into rehab for the forth time. I was tired, hungry, and had no place to go. Nobody wanted me around. I reached out for help. Life can be so beautiful. Today I am a mother. I have a job that can count on me to show up. I am sober and I am never looking back
22 Months Clean From Meth And Xanax And All Other Drugs I Was Prisoner To
I Got Clean On May 10th, 2018
I spent 22 years abusing drugs, alcohol & most of all myself. I overdosed on heroin and on crack several times. I finally had enough of chasing a high that never got me high enough or lasted long enough. I realize now I was running from myself and my emotions all along. I got clean on may 10th, 2018. Because of my higher power and na I am alive, healthy and full of gratitude and hope today
I'm Just 2 Weeks Shy Of Being A Year Completely Sober. I Just Want People Who Are Struggling To Know That This Is Possible
I started doing heroin when I was 21 while working in a brewery. I went into my first treatment facility at 22 not thinking I had a serious problem. I told myself "I can control it this time, just take it easy!" That night I got out I started smoking and drinking again and within 3 days I started doing heroin again. Within the next 4 years I lost everything. 5 jobs, the girl I thought I was going to marry, trust and relationships between friends and family, you name it. Overdosed a few times, numerous nights of crippling withdrawal laying completely naked in bed tossing and turning and throwing up bile out of my bedroom window at 5 in the morning. My life was out of control yet I had no urge to stop. Until one day after being caught in a lie by my mother I just had this thought race through my mind that said "what the hell are you doing?! This isn't you!" That's when I decided something needed to change. I moved from central NY to Northeastern PA and was put into a 5 day detox then a 28 day program. I knew that wasn't going to be enough for me so I decided to go to a 3 month extended care program as well. Within those 4 months I really took a good look at myself. I had to completely change the way I was thinking. I'm finally able to enjoy life the way its supposed to! I have a great paying job now, an apartment with a friend, a car and a newly found positive outlook on life.! I've started caring for not only my mental health but my physical health as well!
Here’s My Before And After. Next Month Will Be My 3 Years Clean From Crystal Meth
I Was A Drug Addict For Years... I’m Not Anymore!
Recovering From Heroin
"‘Calm down, it’s not like you’re gonna see the guy you robbed.’ Well guess what. I walked up to the church, and guess whose face I saw? The man I had just robbed. He was the greeter. I couldn’t get out. I was terrified. I walked up to him with tears in my eyes, and he gave me a hug. 'You are in the right place,' he told me. 'When I was your age, I was doing the same thing.' I had no idea he was in recovery. That I was the first time I believed there was hope for me."
One Year Sober!
Ugh. Started with Cocaine, then Oxys, then I got put on Suboxone, and stayed on it for 8 years. Before I went to treatment I was on 16mg of Suboxone, 4mg of Xanax, 60mg IR Adderall, and 20mg of Ambien. I was also doing as much cocaine as I could, along with the occasional MDMA and LSD.
One Year Clean From Meth, My Life And Health Is Tremendously Better
1000 Days Free From Heroin
i think the first year is the hardest from some form of addiction
Before I Quit Using Drugs vs. 4 Years Clean!
Any type of upper, whether it be coke, MDMA, or methamphetamine. I'm ashamed to admit it, but it is what it is.
My entire life changed! I spent 14 months in an in-patient rehab. After completing the program I became employed and was rapidly promoted. Prior to getting clean, I wouldn't even stay at a job foe more than a few months. My work ethic is top notch, I have an amazing relationship with my family, I actually have money, I'm able to make payments for my vehicle and rent, and most importantly I learned a lot about myself and grew exponentially as a person. These are all things I couldn't grasp and take hold of before. I also must add that I have learned to love myself. I'm proud of who I am, and for the first time in my life I'm okay with who I am. That's the biggest thing that changed.
I Was Addicted To Heroin And Meth On And Off From The Age Of 15 To 29
I am very proud to say that I now have 2 years clean. Some of you are probably wondering why would I ever post a picture like this of myself? Well, if my story helps even just one person to realize that they too can get clean, then it was all worth it.
Let’s Hear It For Michelle Who Is Approaching 2 Years Of Sobriety!
On The Left Is Me On The First Day Of My Last Rehab, String Out On Heroin, Hopeless, Thinking I Would Die With A Needle In My Arm
My Name Is Wendy
Hi, My Name Is Wendy And I’m An Addict. This Is What Recovery Has Done For Me In My Life In Just 9 Months
She Is 46-Years-Old And Has 10 Months Clean
These Pics Are A Clear Reminder Of Why I Don't Want To Go Back To Where I Once Was
My name is Nicole and I am a grateful recovering addict. I am currently a little over 10 months clean from IV crystal meth! I was 90 lbs, lived on the streets, lived in a storage unit, manipulated anyone I could. I almost died from sepsis and even still continued to get high after. I could not get clean for my kids even after my son was put into foster care. I tried multiple times and failed. Getting high was no longer fun. It was more than a full-time job and it was exhausting. The insanity of my life was very clear. I did not want to die and decided to give rehab another shot. I left in September and I did not look back. I now weigh 160 lbs. I feel and look the best I ever have! I have the mental clarity that I had been longing for. My children have their mommy back. My parents have their daughter back! I may not be where I want to be, but I am one day closer to getting there
people are beautiful, it's incredible how what you do with your life manifests on the outside
I Don't Share About Hardships, And The Times I Fell On My Face (Hard), And All The Really Horrible Dark Years Of My Life- Often- If Ever
11 Years Of Sobriety
So Excited, I Had To Share! 1,000 Days Clean
My story isn't so different from how many others started. I started using with my ex-husband. Just partying, then more partying, you know the drill. Then the divorce because we were young, stupid, in love and on drugs. Cue the dark times- losing friends, jobs, totaling cars, myself esteem, the list goes on. - AKA active addiction.
My family tried everything to help, but I thought I knew better. Who was I hurting besides myself anyway?
You know what they say, hindsight is 20/20. Being an addict was the hardest thing I have ever done. I cannot be more clear when I say I wish I had gotten -scratch that - accepted help sooner.
The last time I got high was the same day I was called out on my BS; by someone close to me. I was honestly more relieved than anything...I was just given an opening to finally confess.
Recovery is not happily ever after, but it's pretty close. Even when I have a bad day these days, 10/10 would recommend.
Please, accept help if you are an addict. Alternately, please do not give up on a loved one if they are in active addiction. Accepting help or reaching out is the first step of recovery, and it's okay if you/they have to take the first step more than once.
I Refused To Let My Mom Show Me The Picture On The Left For A Long Time Out Of Shame
The photo on the left was taken after I’d l relapsed yet again back in 2017. I threw all my hope, all my inhibition and my self worth right out the window for heroin. I was doing every drug available and a regular at the ER and jail, and it only took me fighting to get sober before I realized how badly I was hurting not only myself, but all my loved ones, too. In 2017, I still hadn’t reached my rock bottom yet. I put my body through so much pain, so many overdoses, car wrecks, numbing myself carelessly so I didn’t have to feel the pain that I brought with me no matter where I tried running away from it to. I recently hit my 200-day mark and I’m now happier than ever. Do I miss it? Some days I still do. But what’s changed the last six months is that I still won’t go back. There are still tough days, which I wouldn’t be able to get trough without my fiancée letters and daydreaming about our future, or my mom who spreads positivity everywhere she goes, the newer friends who always answer when I need them. I never thought I would live long enough to celebrate my 20th birthday, let alone the 24th birthday I celebrate this year. But no one can do this on their own, I tried over an over. Reach out. You can do it. If there’s even a glimmer of hope, hold on to it
She looks like Rebecca Black and I definitely mean that as a compliment.
This Picture Is Hard To Look At But I Feel I Need To Keep It As A Reminder Of Not Only Where I Was But More Importantly Where I Never Want To Be Again
I weighed 89 pounds. My skin was grey. I had chemical burns on my mouth from smoking dope. I ate maybe once in a two week period. My reality was so distorted that I didn't even recognize the house I lived in for 3 years. My morals had deteriorated to the point I was ready to hurt someone over the 40 dollars they owed me. I was dead mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and almost physically. There were days when I had to ask myself, "When is the last time I fed my kids?" THAT is a hard pill to swallow as a mother! I got my kids taken December 6th, 2017. I got arrested on a couple felonies January 2nd, 2018. I spent time in jail, went to treatment, and busted my butt to get my babies back. December 26th, 2018, I had one day clean. I got my kids back that day. These things aren't easy to admit to but it’s the first step to making a change. I pray for the addict that is still using today. My name is Jackie and I am a recovering addict.
One Year Today Since I Almost Lost My Life
I Cannot Believe It’s Been One Year Today Since I Almost Lost My Life. It Was Without A Doubt The Most Challenging Yet Rewarding Year
Still Going Strong
We Got 3 Years Clean On January 18!!
I'm always amazed at couples who get clean together. Talk about the biggest test of your relationship! Good on you!
Recovering From Meth Addiction
12 years of meth addiction. Last 18 months of hardcore daily iv using. No rehab. No praying to anyone. No meetings. No therapy. No other faith than in myself... One month of sobriety.
All you really need is really, truly want to recover. You must believe it's possible. You can achieve anything you dream of.
Stay strong.
You'll make it.
8 Years Clean. I Feel So Brand New, I Haven't Touched A Rock Since God Showed Me How To Stop
3 Years Clean From Opiates!
First picture was when I was using, second picture was the day after I was admitted to the hospital, third was when I was ~3 mos clean (still in a nursing center) & last pictures are pictures of me and my fiance a month or so ago.
For a long few years I spent addicted to opiates, presciption and otherwise that at the time seemed hopeless and it felt impossible to be able to start a new life. Unfortunately I was injured on top of having chronIc pain, CP & syringomyelia, and after years being put on and off of string narcotics (think fentanyl +oxycodone), I ended up getting into using heroin. I tried over and over to get clean, when suddendly, 3 years ago I wound up in the hospital, going into septic shock from MRSA. I was close to dying that first night but luckily I pulled through and was hospitalized for the better part of a year. I went from bed rest and oxygen, to learning to walk again with and without oxygen, months of routine IV antibiotics, and countless hours in physical therapy, weened off of fentanyl and oxycodone with the help of gabapentin, and eventually was able to leave the facility.
Fast forward about a year when I meet my fiance. He helped me through months of weening off of the extremely high dose of gabapentin I had been on, dealing with many painful muscle spasms that kept me from sleeping well at all. It was almost as difficult, because at this point I was working almost full time. A few months ago I got a procedure where they injected botox into my leg muscles to help with pain and now I'm walking more normally and am the closest to being pain free and drug free as I have ever been in my life. Now I only take muscle relaxers, that I'm starting to ween off as well. With hard work, strong will & the support of my loved ones, I feel as if I've overcome something that years ago seemed impossible.
Back then I felt like my life would never have a purpose, but now I realize my purpose of struggling through all of those years was so that I could give hope to others struggling with addiction. It's never too late for a change. If I could make it this far, everyone else can. Just stay strong and believe in yourself!
What One Year Clean And Sober Off Of Oxy Codone Looks Like!
Addiction Recovery
Left side is me about 12 years ago in active cocaine and alcohol addiction. On the right side it's me today, in recovery and helping others to recover through my work as a counselor
2 Years Clean
First picture is right before I checked myself into rehab for drug addiction in july 2017. As part of my recovery, I've started taking care of my body.
I Just Celebrated 4 Years Of Recovery In July! Recovering Opiate Addict
The Difference 4 Years Off Drugs Makes
Today I Woke Up With 3 Years Clean!
I can still remember how hollow I felt on the left not even being able to function without a substance in my body. I had no idea how I was going to get clean or what that would look like and then I found Narcotics Anonymous and it saved my life and shortly afterwards I found Celebrate Recovery where I felt at home all this to say if your struggling its ok to not be ok. But ask for help you don't have to fight alone. Thank you God for one more day.
Finally Free
For the better part of my life I spent Sunday mornings coming down from massive amounts of intravenous cocaine abuse. Mornings like this were spent with my ear on the cold tile floor of sleazy motel rooms as I stared underneath the doorway stuck in a prison of paranoia. My forearms littered with injection sites forming track marks that could trace the low self-esteem of this addict all the way back to his childhood. When I was finally out of money or my ATM card would shut me off I would slam a bundle of heroin to tranquilize my appetite for more cocaine. Housekeeping would always knock at the door on mornings like this. They’ve been trying to get into my room since I checked in on Thursday with that first 20 bag of cocaine. Since then I’ve only opened the door to fetch more narcotics. As they’d knock I’d close my eyes knowing that the door latch protected this junkie from anyone seeing me in my current state. I would spend the next 8 hours nodding out only to be woken up intermittently by my cigarette burning through the comforter. Outside that motel room people were living. They were running errands, they were going to church, they were hanging with friends, and they were getting together for their Sunday dinners. Inside that motel room I was dying. This Sunday morning I am free. For years I would go in and out of recovery forgetting how bad it was out there for me. I don’t allow myself to forget today
My Addiction Of Meth And Heroin Took Me To Many Bottoms And In December Of 2014 I Was Airlifted To The Hospital And Had To Have Open Heart Surgery. I Was 29 Years Old
Well done! The after photo looks like a cross between Loni Anderson and Vanna White.
By The Grace Of God Today I Have 3 Years Clean!!! I Was A Bottom Of The Barrel Heroin & Crack Addict
I'm Coming Up On 8 Months Clean! I've Battled With Addiction For 7 Years
I Was Addicted To Meth For Over 7 Years. I Was Adopted As A Child So I Never Felt Like I Belong. I Found That In Drugs
13 Months Clean From Heroin As Of Today!
F/27/5'5" (100% Life Change Gained) Difference Between Addiction & Recovery
I love the new light in your eyes, and the strong reminder on your chest. Life will always surprise you, and I have a feeling you have a few surprises for life!
My Friend Joey Is Coming Up On 6 Years Clean. What A Transformation
In October 2016, I Had Dropped Down To 158 Lbs Due To Drug And Alcohol Addiction. 4 Months Later I Entered A Rehab Facility And Gained Roughly 30 Lbs Within 1-2 Months
I Got Sober From Meth After 7 Years Of Using. I Had Lost My Kids And My Family. I Have Been Able To Get 7 Years Of Sobriety
The Picture On The Left Is Extremely Scary And Gut-Wrenching To Look At. I Was In The Depths Of My Addiction. Lost, Broken, And Believed There Was No Hope Left
Recovering Addict/Alcoholic. 9 Months Clean And Sober. Happy I Look Like Myself, Happier I Got My Life Back
One Year Ago Today I Woke Up In An Uncomfortable Detox Unit Bed In A Drug Rehab Facility
I Have Struggled With Drugs And Alcohol Since I Was 15 Years Old, Cocaine And Alcohol Being My Drugs Of Choice
Over 6 Years Of Total Abstinence
I spent over 25 years filling my body, spirit and mind with some kind of substance. I lost everything that meant anything to me, including my children. On January 16, 2013 I changed my life. I was able to hold on a tiny bit of hope and ran with. Once I was able to stop drinking and using, I was able to grow. My life had changed tremendously!
2 Years Ago I Was Addicted To Meth And Was Knocking On Deaths Door
Today I have been sober for 2 years, have gained my family back and have an amazing job working as a peer support specialist.
1 Year Sober From Pills And Alcohol!
Recovery Works. It's Nice Not To Be Falling Face First In The Street,fighting, Overdosing, Lying, And Hurting Myself And The People In My Lives I Love The Most
Pic to the left is first day of my second time in treatment almost 5 years ago. You can live happily without drugs or alcohol. There is hope. I am proof.
April 17 Of This Year Made 6 Years Alcohol And Drug Free
Mariah Celebrated A Year Sober
"I waited daily for the phone call that would tell me my daughter was dead. I planned her funeral. I did not sleep the entire night for years - always waiting for the ring of the doorbell. 18 months ago, she was living in the dumpster area of Taco Bell. She had sold her car for drugs. She weighed less than 100 lbs. Mariah celebrated a year sober yesterday. I am one of the lucky mothers. I did not have to bury my child. I have my daughter back. Do I trust her? Not fully. But she is sober. She is productive. She is happy. For today.” Mom of an addict says ‘heroin is not picky,’ she still ‘breaks down sobbing’
5 Years Ago I Came Clean To My Mom About My Addiction. My Wonderful Boyfriend Helped Put Me Through Detox
This Is A Before And After Picture Of My Brother! He Now Has 2 1/2 Years Sober!
Keith Struggled With Drug Addiction For 22 Years Before Becoming Sober
During 22 years of drug and alcohol addiction Keith spent his life trapped between sleeping rough on the streets and prison. Hit by a family breakdown and the death of his daughter, his road to recovery was tough. But with the help of local homeless and addiction recovery charities, today Keith is four years clean and in full time employment and working as a relief worker at Julian House in his spare time. He now uses his own experiences daily to help those around him.
Clean Since May 4 Last Year! Clean From All Drugs! Our Main Drugs Where Heroin And Meth
Meth Addiction From 15 Till 22 vs. 4 Years Clean
I Was An Iv Heroin And Cocaine Addict As Well As Alcoholic For Around 5 Years
I too overcame an addiction to cocaïne. Well, my son helped me. So, to all off the people here and people who are still struggling with becoming clean or already are clean, you are amazing! I know it's hard to stay clean and face the things you have done and maybe tried to forget by using drugs. But in the end you are strong, worth it and beautiful! You are not your addiction or your past. Wish you all the luck in the world!
For every addict going through hell there are about 10 other people also going through hell watching their friend/ family doing all the things addicts do.
And nobody quite understands how hard it is to be a spouse or family of an addict, especially the addicts themselves. They only think they are hurting themselves, but it couldn't be farther from the truth. It's hard not to give up on someone you love when they treat you like ****and refuse help. You just have to stick in there and continue to be there for them, and wait until they are ready to accept help.
Load More Replies...I fully support the decriminalization of drug use. Drug addiction is a mental health crisis, not a criminal offense. Portugal decriminalized drug use and started treating people like patients rather than criminals and the results have been amazing. Less overdoses, less HIV infections, less health related injury, less addiction overall, less drug use. Drug addiction is hard on everyone, the person going through it, their families, and their community. We need to be to treat drug use for what it is, a symptom of mental health illness.
Totally agree with you Ivana. Hello from Victoria Australia, "we" are starting to de criminalize marijuana. It is a start.
Load More Replies...Good luck to all of them, hopefully they will stay clean and will continue fighting. I know it is process, hope they will be in the right company.
It is true, it takes a LOT of the right sort of support people to get through this. And the addict has to work very hard at it. And be ready to do that.
Load More Replies...And the right sort of help Persistence is very hard for family and friends of addicts.
Load More Replies...In every situation without exception, the people look 1000 times better and have a genuine smile on their face versus the empty hollow look of a zombie. My entire family died from alcohol and drug abuse (parents, four siblings) and for whatever reason I never became addicted and I'm thankful.
You have lived through horrible life events, no child should have to have your experience. I hope that you have managed to create a more stable, sane, healthier and happier life for yourself. I wish you all the best.
Load More Replies...I still struggle with my alcoholism. When I separated from the military, I was drinking about a fifth of whiskey every night. Thats a standard bottle every day. That's a lot of booze. I drink a few beers ever night, which is a lot better than in the past, but still seem to have a problem kicking the habit entirely. Im gonna keep working on it though.
Hang in there Spirit! it is hard. and a battle every day. Respect to you that you know the problem. If the first support people are not right for you, keep asking. Sometimes professionals want to help, but it is just not a good match.
Load More Replies...I'm 6 months sober. I'm a terrible alcoholic with Borderline Personality Disorder. I was out of control & landed in jail for violence/ felony charges. .. Couple of times.
Congratulations on your sobriety - that is awesome!
Load More Replies...When I imagine how many handicapped or terminally ill people would do anything for a functioning or healthy body, it's frustrating to see how many people are doing so much harm to themselves and their
I remember years ago, a good friend of mine was living in Seattle ( I was living in Illinois at the time). They got hooked on Heroin. Hard. Took only a few tries before she was fully hooked to it. We were talking about her ambitions. She went there to start college. She was missing classes and not getting anything done. She was falling behind in her classes. And she decided that she needed to end her using heroin. She didn't think she'd get addicted so fast. So. We spent two days and three nights on the phone the entire time (except bathroom breaks) to make sure that she stayed off the stuff and got clear-headed. After that, we checked in 5 times a day with each other to make sure she made it. I even got in trouble at work for being on my phone too much. They understood once I explained it. But it worked. 6 years later, she's a businesswoman and runs an interior design company. She's never touched the stuff again. I am so glad all these people have success stories :)
Wow that's amazing! You were such a big support for her!
Load More Replies...In order to beat addiction, people need help to change their lives, the people they see, the places they go, the things they do. If you come out of rehab and go straight back to the people, the places and the things that got you using in the first place, you don't stand a chance. We need to stop treating addicts like criminals and start facing up to an epidemic that needs attention and active assistance to move on from.
Yes a good rehab place will teach people how to handle their lives once they leave, and continue support.
Load More Replies...My comment would be the same for all photos : applause and best wishes to all of you. Every single one.
:-). yes there is no "pick your favorite to up vote" it is all upvote!
Load More Replies...I've had drug addiction problems for years, 17 in fact. It's gone from one substance to another, I'll quit one thing but something else will crop up. Now it's managed on habitual tobacco and cannabis use. I would love to be free from the dependancy, I admire every one of them!
Wishing support and strength and good people around you. It is really hard. Above all Stay Alive. Keep asking until you find the right people with the right knowledge to help you. When you are alive you can always start again. Hold on. You will probably have to ask many times to find the right doctor/ social worker/ addiction specialists for you and your situation. Keep asking!
Load More Replies...I had to upvote every picture! Working on sobriety and addiction is so hard but it is so worth it! Much love to everyone struggling
Well done guys. What you've overcome shows how gangsta you really are.
Congrats on all the people for getting this far! Keep moving forward! You guys can do it!
I tried so hard to save my husband from his addiction to cocaine (and whatever else it was laced with). His addiction cost him all of his kidney function. He was sober for six months after he started dialysis. He fell back into his addiction. I woke up to go to work the morning before Thanksgiving 2017. I found him in the den. It looked like he fell asleep. They couldn't resuscitate him. Intellectual I know that only he could have saved himself, but emotionally I still struggle with the "if only"s...
It is really hard. It is NOT your fault. Wishing ( praying) you find peace in your soul and great friends who are not afraid to talk about this stuff.
Load More Replies...Every one who's struggling and fighting the strength to win the battle, i wish them "all the best"
Big congrats to all you people! You guys did this, not God, not luck, YOU. Awesome. Also, it's interesting to see that, while many look like addicts big time, some look pretty normal.. while being addicted to meth, heroin etc. Proves that thing about books, covers and judging.
Congratulations to all of you! Enjoy life and be aware how strong you really are! :-)
All people here are worth a thumb up. I never was addicted to drugs, but I have a cousin who was once addicted (some 30 years ago) and I saw everything he went through. Kudos to all of them and kudos to Bored Panda. I think is one the best posts I've ever seen on Panda.
Really love posts like this one! They give hope and show that no matter what happens in our lives, the human can beat every obstacle. We are stronger than we think we might be, we can be cruel the same as we can be good, but we always need some goal to feel that our life is worth fighting for. Well done guys, you're amazing and inspiring!
It's amazing how attractive these people become with their bright eyes and smiles they go from looking minutes from death to absolutely gorgeous and handsome
I would like to congratulate all of the sbove. So happy for you all. You all cleaned up brilliantly. What a good looking group of people!
On a side note: This would be a lot more heartwarming if most of the women did not look like models and/or mannequins. It's really disturbing and sets such an unhealthy expectation for young women that even "casual" photos, a woman has to look "stunning". I notice the guys just look like dudes and only one or two were posed as models and even those still looked normal and realistic. How does any teenager with stuff like this in her mind picture herself ever going for a swim or a walk or to an amusement park where she might get sweaty without worrying that she will look disgusting and no guy will want her? Or a young woman worrying so much about she will look in the morning she's actually afraid to have sex? Why is this happening? I thought it would get better for women after my generation (when everyone had to weigh 95 pounds). It's only gotten worse. Many women become depressed cuz of these issues & depression can lead to many self-harming activities, including drug use.
To me, the end result is these people recovered and are beautiful. They are here on earth for something more than a tragic existence. Good thoughts for all .
im so proud of all of these people. my dad never did beat his battle with addiction. it always amazes me hearing success stories.
Sending you strength and hoping you get good people around you.
Load More Replies...Each and every one of you is amazing! Each of you has a story, you have shared your lowest points with the world, in the hope your stories will give power to others to find the way out of their darkness. Well done, wishing all of you happy, peaceful & successful lives. One love! xxx
IM 68 3 MONTHS OFF ALCOHOL 20 YEARS OFF CRACK COCAINE, 10 YEARS OFF CIGARETTES INJURIES , DENTAL ISSUES, ETC "I SHALL FIGHT NO MORE FOREVER"
My boyfriend and I are clean from meth for one month. No more paranoid thoughts, no more arguments, no more leaving in the middle of the night, no mire chaos. We've already secured job interviews, started fixing things in this pile of rubble we call home. I speak to my family 3 x a week. I forgot how awesome it is to experience life sober.
I was an IV heroin user for over 20 years. I now have 7 years clean... and am a solid example of how much better life can be!
Moved to tears by the total awesomeness of you all, you gorgeous individuals. So, so well done. Legends! Xx
On January 31 2020 I'll have been clean off meth & heroin for 33 years (and a month after that tobacco free for 32 years). At the time I was suicidal and depressed. Since that time I have fathered a successful 31 y.o. daughter and paid off all her NYU student debt, taken 3 two-month volunteer vacations in Italy (archeological dig), the Yucatan (environmental study of mangrove forests), and Huancayo, Peru (translating written materials for 3 local archeological museums into English), saved 2 lives (Heimlich & CPR) and done too many good deeds to count. When I think about the things that came about by my quitting I not only consider the amazing things that I have enjoyed but the ways I have improved the lives of others during those three decades.
For a minute I thought I saw my real mom, and I was like "No f*****g way did she actually get clean" Then, when I realized it wasn't her, I got sad. F**k you, mom.
Besides getting over the initial addiction, the biggest problem these people have is no support system. Oftentimes when people are sent to court ordered rehab, they come out clean, but are then sent back to the same people, the same environment that pushed them into addiction in the first place. I remember watching cops arrest a guy that was high. He asked to be taken to rehab and away from his family who were, as it turns out, getting drunk in front of him. He pleaded, "I don't want to go back there no more. I want to get clean!!" Addiction requires a healthy environment too..someplace where they can build a base of confidence and strength. Sending them back to the same old stomping grounds, you might as well roll up their sleeve and hand them a needle.
My clean date is Nov 15, 1999. I recently celebrated 20 years clean. I simply decided that I was not going to be ‘F‘ ed up for the new millennium. I had tried some meetings and rehab...but the power to change was in my own self. Over those last two decades I became super successful in my business. Bought a home (now free and clear). Funny thing is I am now prescribed two medications that are often abused—they were not used by me back then. I keep them in my safe...the are taken extremely rarely...I never want to go back to where I was. You have the power, and whatever works for you....rehab, meetings or doing it by yourself...do it. You will not regret going clean, the only regret I had was over time lost to that c**p.
It would be really cool if this were an ongoing project where others could keep submitting images. If I get 100 upvotes I’ll create that page.
I commend these beautiful ppl for their strength and honesty, and wish them peace & God’s blessings - its the hardest thing to overcome.... its a killer. There but for the Grace of God go I..
It took me almost 20 years just to quit smoking cigarettes. I can't even begin to imagine what these people went through to get over their addiction. They sure have a lot of strength in them.
I have 8 years of sobriety, being clean and sober is a daily gift, one day at a time, love these stories, thank you
My sister was a heroine addict for 10 years but got clean 9 years ago and never looked back, I’m so proud of her and love her to bits.. to all of the above... WELLDONE
Except for the first person these are all caucasian blonds. Privilege in action. And thanking a god that made them addicts: wow
Kudos to these doubly-courageous folks! First, they had the courage to beat the odds and turn their own lives around. But, perhaps they had an even bigger dose of courage to be willing to share their stories and to work to help others that might be living in the same hell that once imprisoned them. May you all be blessed throughout your years with all the abundance life has to offer!
Good for everyone in this blog. Never quit quitting! There a ton of people rooting for your continued success!
I too overcame an addiction to cocaïne. Well, my son helped me. So, to all off the people here and people who are still struggling with becoming clean or already are clean, you are amazing! I know it's hard to stay clean and face the things you have done and maybe tried to forget by using drugs. But in the end you are strong, worth it and beautiful! You are not your addiction or your past. Wish you all the luck in the world!
For every addict going through hell there are about 10 other people also going through hell watching their friend/ family doing all the things addicts do.
And nobody quite understands how hard it is to be a spouse or family of an addict, especially the addicts themselves. They only think they are hurting themselves, but it couldn't be farther from the truth. It's hard not to give up on someone you love when they treat you like ****and refuse help. You just have to stick in there and continue to be there for them, and wait until they are ready to accept help.
Load More Replies...I fully support the decriminalization of drug use. Drug addiction is a mental health crisis, not a criminal offense. Portugal decriminalized drug use and started treating people like patients rather than criminals and the results have been amazing. Less overdoses, less HIV infections, less health related injury, less addiction overall, less drug use. Drug addiction is hard on everyone, the person going through it, their families, and their community. We need to be to treat drug use for what it is, a symptom of mental health illness.
Totally agree with you Ivana. Hello from Victoria Australia, "we" are starting to de criminalize marijuana. It is a start.
Load More Replies...Good luck to all of them, hopefully they will stay clean and will continue fighting. I know it is process, hope they will be in the right company.
It is true, it takes a LOT of the right sort of support people to get through this. And the addict has to work very hard at it. And be ready to do that.
Load More Replies...And the right sort of help Persistence is very hard for family and friends of addicts.
Load More Replies...In every situation without exception, the people look 1000 times better and have a genuine smile on their face versus the empty hollow look of a zombie. My entire family died from alcohol and drug abuse (parents, four siblings) and for whatever reason I never became addicted and I'm thankful.
You have lived through horrible life events, no child should have to have your experience. I hope that you have managed to create a more stable, sane, healthier and happier life for yourself. I wish you all the best.
Load More Replies...I still struggle with my alcoholism. When I separated from the military, I was drinking about a fifth of whiskey every night. Thats a standard bottle every day. That's a lot of booze. I drink a few beers ever night, which is a lot better than in the past, but still seem to have a problem kicking the habit entirely. Im gonna keep working on it though.
Hang in there Spirit! it is hard. and a battle every day. Respect to you that you know the problem. If the first support people are not right for you, keep asking. Sometimes professionals want to help, but it is just not a good match.
Load More Replies...I'm 6 months sober. I'm a terrible alcoholic with Borderline Personality Disorder. I was out of control & landed in jail for violence/ felony charges. .. Couple of times.
Congratulations on your sobriety - that is awesome!
Load More Replies...When I imagine how many handicapped or terminally ill people would do anything for a functioning or healthy body, it's frustrating to see how many people are doing so much harm to themselves and their
I remember years ago, a good friend of mine was living in Seattle ( I was living in Illinois at the time). They got hooked on Heroin. Hard. Took only a few tries before she was fully hooked to it. We were talking about her ambitions. She went there to start college. She was missing classes and not getting anything done. She was falling behind in her classes. And she decided that she needed to end her using heroin. She didn't think she'd get addicted so fast. So. We spent two days and three nights on the phone the entire time (except bathroom breaks) to make sure that she stayed off the stuff and got clear-headed. After that, we checked in 5 times a day with each other to make sure she made it. I even got in trouble at work for being on my phone too much. They understood once I explained it. But it worked. 6 years later, she's a businesswoman and runs an interior design company. She's never touched the stuff again. I am so glad all these people have success stories :)
Wow that's amazing! You were such a big support for her!
Load More Replies...In order to beat addiction, people need help to change their lives, the people they see, the places they go, the things they do. If you come out of rehab and go straight back to the people, the places and the things that got you using in the first place, you don't stand a chance. We need to stop treating addicts like criminals and start facing up to an epidemic that needs attention and active assistance to move on from.
Yes a good rehab place will teach people how to handle their lives once they leave, and continue support.
Load More Replies...My comment would be the same for all photos : applause and best wishes to all of you. Every single one.
:-). yes there is no "pick your favorite to up vote" it is all upvote!
Load More Replies...I've had drug addiction problems for years, 17 in fact. It's gone from one substance to another, I'll quit one thing but something else will crop up. Now it's managed on habitual tobacco and cannabis use. I would love to be free from the dependancy, I admire every one of them!
Wishing support and strength and good people around you. It is really hard. Above all Stay Alive. Keep asking until you find the right people with the right knowledge to help you. When you are alive you can always start again. Hold on. You will probably have to ask many times to find the right doctor/ social worker/ addiction specialists for you and your situation. Keep asking!
Load More Replies...I had to upvote every picture! Working on sobriety and addiction is so hard but it is so worth it! Much love to everyone struggling
Well done guys. What you've overcome shows how gangsta you really are.
Congrats on all the people for getting this far! Keep moving forward! You guys can do it!
I tried so hard to save my husband from his addiction to cocaine (and whatever else it was laced with). His addiction cost him all of his kidney function. He was sober for six months after he started dialysis. He fell back into his addiction. I woke up to go to work the morning before Thanksgiving 2017. I found him in the den. It looked like he fell asleep. They couldn't resuscitate him. Intellectual I know that only he could have saved himself, but emotionally I still struggle with the "if only"s...
It is really hard. It is NOT your fault. Wishing ( praying) you find peace in your soul and great friends who are not afraid to talk about this stuff.
Load More Replies...Every one who's struggling and fighting the strength to win the battle, i wish them "all the best"
Big congrats to all you people! You guys did this, not God, not luck, YOU. Awesome. Also, it's interesting to see that, while many look like addicts big time, some look pretty normal.. while being addicted to meth, heroin etc. Proves that thing about books, covers and judging.
Congratulations to all of you! Enjoy life and be aware how strong you really are! :-)
All people here are worth a thumb up. I never was addicted to drugs, but I have a cousin who was once addicted (some 30 years ago) and I saw everything he went through. Kudos to all of them and kudos to Bored Panda. I think is one the best posts I've ever seen on Panda.
Really love posts like this one! They give hope and show that no matter what happens in our lives, the human can beat every obstacle. We are stronger than we think we might be, we can be cruel the same as we can be good, but we always need some goal to feel that our life is worth fighting for. Well done guys, you're amazing and inspiring!
It's amazing how attractive these people become with their bright eyes and smiles they go from looking minutes from death to absolutely gorgeous and handsome
I would like to congratulate all of the sbove. So happy for you all. You all cleaned up brilliantly. What a good looking group of people!
On a side note: This would be a lot more heartwarming if most of the women did not look like models and/or mannequins. It's really disturbing and sets such an unhealthy expectation for young women that even "casual" photos, a woman has to look "stunning". I notice the guys just look like dudes and only one or two were posed as models and even those still looked normal and realistic. How does any teenager with stuff like this in her mind picture herself ever going for a swim or a walk or to an amusement park where she might get sweaty without worrying that she will look disgusting and no guy will want her? Or a young woman worrying so much about she will look in the morning she's actually afraid to have sex? Why is this happening? I thought it would get better for women after my generation (when everyone had to weigh 95 pounds). It's only gotten worse. Many women become depressed cuz of these issues & depression can lead to many self-harming activities, including drug use.
To me, the end result is these people recovered and are beautiful. They are here on earth for something more than a tragic existence. Good thoughts for all .
im so proud of all of these people. my dad never did beat his battle with addiction. it always amazes me hearing success stories.
Sending you strength and hoping you get good people around you.
Load More Replies...Each and every one of you is amazing! Each of you has a story, you have shared your lowest points with the world, in the hope your stories will give power to others to find the way out of their darkness. Well done, wishing all of you happy, peaceful & successful lives. One love! xxx
IM 68 3 MONTHS OFF ALCOHOL 20 YEARS OFF CRACK COCAINE, 10 YEARS OFF CIGARETTES INJURIES , DENTAL ISSUES, ETC "I SHALL FIGHT NO MORE FOREVER"
My boyfriend and I are clean from meth for one month. No more paranoid thoughts, no more arguments, no more leaving in the middle of the night, no mire chaos. We've already secured job interviews, started fixing things in this pile of rubble we call home. I speak to my family 3 x a week. I forgot how awesome it is to experience life sober.
I was an IV heroin user for over 20 years. I now have 7 years clean... and am a solid example of how much better life can be!
Moved to tears by the total awesomeness of you all, you gorgeous individuals. So, so well done. Legends! Xx
On January 31 2020 I'll have been clean off meth & heroin for 33 years (and a month after that tobacco free for 32 years). At the time I was suicidal and depressed. Since that time I have fathered a successful 31 y.o. daughter and paid off all her NYU student debt, taken 3 two-month volunteer vacations in Italy (archeological dig), the Yucatan (environmental study of mangrove forests), and Huancayo, Peru (translating written materials for 3 local archeological museums into English), saved 2 lives (Heimlich & CPR) and done too many good deeds to count. When I think about the things that came about by my quitting I not only consider the amazing things that I have enjoyed but the ways I have improved the lives of others during those three decades.
For a minute I thought I saw my real mom, and I was like "No f*****g way did she actually get clean" Then, when I realized it wasn't her, I got sad. F**k you, mom.
Besides getting over the initial addiction, the biggest problem these people have is no support system. Oftentimes when people are sent to court ordered rehab, they come out clean, but are then sent back to the same people, the same environment that pushed them into addiction in the first place. I remember watching cops arrest a guy that was high. He asked to be taken to rehab and away from his family who were, as it turns out, getting drunk in front of him. He pleaded, "I don't want to go back there no more. I want to get clean!!" Addiction requires a healthy environment too..someplace where they can build a base of confidence and strength. Sending them back to the same old stomping grounds, you might as well roll up their sleeve and hand them a needle.
My clean date is Nov 15, 1999. I recently celebrated 20 years clean. I simply decided that I was not going to be ‘F‘ ed up for the new millennium. I had tried some meetings and rehab...but the power to change was in my own self. Over those last two decades I became super successful in my business. Bought a home (now free and clear). Funny thing is I am now prescribed two medications that are often abused—they were not used by me back then. I keep them in my safe...the are taken extremely rarely...I never want to go back to where I was. You have the power, and whatever works for you....rehab, meetings or doing it by yourself...do it. You will not regret going clean, the only regret I had was over time lost to that c**p.
It would be really cool if this were an ongoing project where others could keep submitting images. If I get 100 upvotes I’ll create that page.
I commend these beautiful ppl for their strength and honesty, and wish them peace & God’s blessings - its the hardest thing to overcome.... its a killer. There but for the Grace of God go I..
It took me almost 20 years just to quit smoking cigarettes. I can't even begin to imagine what these people went through to get over their addiction. They sure have a lot of strength in them.
I have 8 years of sobriety, being clean and sober is a daily gift, one day at a time, love these stories, thank you
My sister was a heroine addict for 10 years but got clean 9 years ago and never looked back, I’m so proud of her and love her to bits.. to all of the above... WELLDONE
Except for the first person these are all caucasian blonds. Privilege in action. And thanking a god that made them addicts: wow
Kudos to these doubly-courageous folks! First, they had the courage to beat the odds and turn their own lives around. But, perhaps they had an even bigger dose of courage to be willing to share their stories and to work to help others that might be living in the same hell that once imprisoned them. May you all be blessed throughout your years with all the abundance life has to offer!
Good for everyone in this blog. Never quit quitting! There a ton of people rooting for your continued success!