"Giving up alcohol was essential for my survival"

When I entered Priory in March 2023, I knew I needed help. I was scared, but I also knew giving up alcohol was essential for my survival.

This was my third time in rehab. I’d first been to Priory Hospital Roehampton in 2006 and stayed sober for 14½ years before relapsing. In July 2022, I went to a rehab in Dublin, but despite completing 28 days there, I left and went straight to the bar. While I may have been physically sober, mentally, my addiction remained unaddressed.

From the moment I arrived at Hayes Grove, I felt safe and supported. I was never alone unless I asked to be, and the accommodation was comfortable, with my own en-suite. The admissions process was quick and straightforward, and the staff treated me with compassion. The therapists leading the addiction treatment programme were consistently realistic and grounded, while the nursing staff were not only caring, but also practical in their approach. 

Determined to beat alcoholism, I approached this final rehab with focus. The therapists’ openness about their own recovery was deeply inspiring, and knowing they’d been through the same struggles pushed me to succeed.

The 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) were introduced early in my stay. Although I’d been through the steps before, the way the therapists delved into each one was eye-opening. Working through steps 1 to 3 over the course of 28 days gave me the chance to really explore my thoughts, behaviours and actions in a way I hadn’t before. I also had a keyworker, who provided me with invaluable one-to-one support, helping me explore my past traumas and behaviours that contributed to my addiction. She was always there when I needed her.

We had a busy daily programme of sessions, which kept me focused. Each session was tailored to tackle negative mind-sets and denial. When something traumatic or important came up for one of our group members, we’d work through it together and support each other. I placed my trust in my therapists and fellow patients. Outside of our sessions, no-one was left to deal with issues alone. Support was always there from the other patients, therapists and staff. 

My time at Priory Hospital Hayes Grove went by so quickly, and I made close friendships, while gaining enormous respect for the therapists. I learned that recovery was only possible if I truly wanted it, and committing to the 12 steps and AA meetings was essential. I created a recovery plan, which included AA and aftercare sessions, to keep me on track. Though I was nervous to leave, I knew I’d been given the best possible chance of recovery, backed by an incredible team and equipped with the tools I needed.

Now, 490 days sober, I feel stronger than ever. I attend AA meetings up to five times a week and have built a strong network of recovering alcoholics, many of whom I’m proud to call my friends. Having completed the 12 steps, I now help others in their own recovery journeys. My experience at Priory has been life-changing, and it has inspired me to study to become a counsellor, so I can give back and support others in the same way I was helped. Priory Hospital Hayes Grove truly changed my life, and I will forever be grateful for my time there.