Stories of Hope
Never Alone Again
December 2016
I was a cheerful and carefree man. Strangers felt comfortable around me because I socialised well. Life started to go downhill when a colleague introduced me to synthetic opiates. Never did I expect, I ended up hooked for 10 years. At 36, I felt lost and directionless. I isolated myself and kept my problems to myself. My future felt so bleak. I kept asking myself, "Am I going to use throughout my life?" Drugs turned me into a shadow of my former self.
When I wanted to stop, I shared my problems with a psychologist. He referred me to NAMS for medical detoxification. During the detox, I got to know about WE CARE as a drop-in centre. I knew that I couldn't be alone. Whenever I was alone at home, I was triggered to use. Overcoming triggers alone is a major struggle. My negative thinking led me back to active using. This vicious cycle continued. Therefore, I decided to give WE CARE a try.
During the first visit to WE CARE, I felt awkward and couldn't connect with the staff and drop-ins. I thought that 'this place works for others but I questioned if this place will work for me'. Luckily, a drop-in member reached out to me which made me feel comfortable. After dropping in daily, I feel more comfortable with the rest of the drop-ins. Staying connected with the people at WE CARE helped me to stay away from drugs. We have meals together, exercise together and attend programmes as a group.
WE CARE is a safe place, where my triggers are manageable. Whenever I feel a desire to use, the power of the group help me overcome the trigger. If I have issues, I have friends to share. WE CARE is a safe and comfortable place. I learn that it takes time to build relationships. Upon reflection, I wouldn't know how I can spend the day time without using, without WE CARE.
*name has been changed due to confidentiality reasons.
Tell Us Your Story
Do you have an inspiring story to share? We are always on a lookout for patrons who can help us raise awareness and reduce the stigma linked to addiction. We often provide case studies to help people better understand and appreciate the problem of addiction.
We thank you for your support and greatly appreciate your willingness to share with us your story.
Please be assured that WE CARE will handle participant’s personal information with anonymity and respect.
If you would like to share your story, please do not hesitate to email leslie@wecare.org.sg.
If you prefer to be interviewed, please contact Yvonne to book an appointment at 3165 8017.
Your story can make a difference in the lives of others !
