What the Falkirk Wheel Abseil Taught Me About Trust in Recovery…
by Melissa Pick - 1 Min Read
On Saturday, I stood at the Falkirk Wheel and watched people do something that goes against instinct. They leaned back, trusted the rope, and let go.
When we talk about recovery, especially for the women we support, we don’t always talk enough about trust. Not the surface-level kind, but the deep, uncomfortable, often fractured kind that takes time to rebuild.
Trust is often one of the first things lost in addiction, and one of the hardest things to get back.
Trust in other people. Trust in services. Trust in the idea that support will actually be there when you reach for it. And maybe most importantly, trust in yourself.
Research shows that recovery isn’t just about stopping substance use. It’s about rebuilding connections, relationships, and a sense of safety in the world around you. In fact, women who have stronger, supportive recovery networks are significantly more likely to maintain sobriety over time, highlighting just how trust and connection are essential for long-term recovery! (1)
However, there are always barriers and set-backs. Fewer women access treatment services in the first place, often due to stigma, caring responsibilities, or lack of gender-specific support, meaning the path to rebuilding trust can be even more complex (2).
Watching the abseil on Saturday, I realised that all of our participants had overcome those barriers to trust, let go, and complete the abseil- a reflection of the growing trust within their recovery journeys. Not to mention the comradery was unmatched! The supportive and encouraging atmosphere really brought the team together.
We are extremely proud of each of our service users, supporters, and those with lived experience that took the leap with us. You’re incredible bravery is an inspiration to us all!
