For just over 28 years, I was in active addiction.
I grew up in a South Asian, Punjabi household where alcohol was often part of family life and celebrations. From a young age, I saw alcohol being consumed and witnessed the traditional roles around it — the women cooking and looking after the home while the men drank and ate.
This became normal to me. I grew up believing that one day I would take part in the same way. At the same time, I witnessed arguments, violence and other problems connected to alcohol. But like many families, we weren’t encouraged to speak openly about what we saw, question it, or talk about how it affected us.
As I got older, I began my own downward spiral into alcohol addiction, which eventually progressed into substance abuse. My addiction became a huge part of my life and negatively affected my work, friendships, social life and relationships.
I also carried my addiction into a serious relationship with my partner, with whom I have five beautiful children with. Instead of giving my family the time, support and presence they deserved, I invested much of my time, energy and money into my addiction.
My partner lived through 17 years of my addiction alongside me. It affected our home, our family life and our relationship in ways that are difficult to put into words.
Today, I am incredibly grateful to say that I have been sober since 3 January 2022.
My recovery has been built through spirituality, meditation, exercise, recovery meetings and, importantly, connecting with people who understand the journey and share a desire for positive change.
Recovery has taught me that change is possible. It has also taught me the importance of connection, honesty, accountability, self-belief and taking things one day at a time.
I now want to dedicate my life to helping others who may be struggling with addiction, recovery or the challenges that come with changing their lives — as well as supporting family members and loved ones who may be affected by someone else's addiction.
I don't claim to have all the answers, and I don't speak as a medical professional or therapist. What I offer comes from lived experience. I know what it is like to lose yourself in addiction, to see the impact it has on the people you love, and to begin the long journey of rebuilding your life.
Most importantly, I know that recovery is possible.
Your recovery. Your journey. Your next chapter.
I'm here to walk alongside you.