Recorded live at SARRCON, this From Darkness to Life (Our Collective Journey) episode features Medicine Hat business owner and city councillor Chris Hellman sharing how escalating alcohol use and worsening mental health after COVID led to isolation, depression, and not caring if he lived. He describes how his wife, parents, and especially his sister intervened with a careful plan that got him into a Vancouver Island (Duncan/Victoria area) treatment centre, where he detoxed, completed 60 days, and returned home with shame and fear of stigma before gradually rebuilding through therapy, medical support, 12-step meetings, peer support work, and community connection. Chris discusses service gaps, transitional housing, and how gentle, non-judgmental support and listening helped him find hope and sustain 17 months of sobriety.
https://ourcollectivejourney.ca/podcast
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