Debbie’s journey to recovery wasn’t without its challenges. Initially reluctant to seek help due to fears of judgment and past trauma, Debbie found the support she needed through Moving On Inverclyde. Her experience highlights how personalised care and understanding can help break down the barriers of stigma and fear.

Recovery Journey:

When Debbie was first referred to Moving On Inverclyde, she was hesitant to attend due to the fear of judgment and the stigma surrounding alcohol and drug use. However, Moving On Inverclyde reached out to her and offered a female key worker to support her recovery. This gesture was crucial in easing Debbie’s initial fears, especially given her past experiences in an abusive relationship with a male.

Having a female key worker allowed Debbie to feel seen and understood, which was essential for her to begin her journey of healing. The familiar environment and the safe space provided by Moving On Inverclyde helped her overcome her reluctance and engage more openly in the recovery process.

Challenges and Insights:

Debbie emphasises that alcohol an/or drug use does not discriminate, it can affect anyone. She believes that the stigma is what truly holds people back. Recovery, for Debbie, means having a peaceful and calm mind, feeling happier, and experiencing emotions she never had before recovery. For her, finding inner peace was a key indicator of her progress.

When facing difficult moments in her recovery, Debbie turned to the SMART resources and other tools provided by Moving On Inverclyde. These resources helped her overcome self-doubt, stay grounded, and get back on track when recovery seemed overwhelming.

Advice for Others:

Debbie encourages women beginning their recovery journey to remember that there is nothing to be ashamed of. She encourages women to push through negative emotions such as fear, embarrassment, and shame, which can hinder progress. Being open and honest with trusted people is crucial for recovery. As she wisely says, “A problem shared is a problem halved.”