Just for Today - Recovery Story of Joost

Hello, my name is Joost and I am an addict.

I've been struggling with addiction for over 12 years. My life was a mess and I've lost everything. I hit rock bottom hard and reached out for help.

Several years later, I was asked by 2 students to share my life story with them for their school project. They interviewed me and asked me many questions. Then they created a book, describing my life story in their words. Reading back my own journey still makes me tear up. The mess I've made, the lies I've told, the loved ones I've lost and the damage I've caused. But also the hope I've found in recovery, the honesty I've regained, the new friends I've made and the life I've rebuild is described in this book.

I think this book could plant a seed in the mind of a still struggling addict or inspire a recovering addict in their journey through life. If my story reaches just one person, it is pure profit.

I hope it reaches you!

"Recovery is not easy, but it is possible. It all starts with the first step and the promise: Just for today."

Need support right now? You don't have to do this alone!

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, depression, or mental health issues, please reach out. Support is confidential, free, and available 24/7.

Narcotics Anonymous (NA)

na.org

Welcome to Narcotics Anonymous. What is our message? The message is that an addict, any addict, can stop using drugs, lose the desire to use, and find a new way to live. Our message is hope and the promise of freedom.

Cocaine Anonymous (CA)

ca.org

Cocaine Anonymous is a Fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others recover from their addiction. The best way to reach someone is to speak to them on a common level. The members of C.A. are all recovering addicts who maintain their individual sobriety by working with others. We come from various social, ethnic, economic and religious backgrounds, but what we have in common is addiction.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

aa.org

Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of people who come together to solve their drinking problem. It doesn’t cost anything to attend A.A. meetings. There are no age or education requirements to participate. Membership is open to anyone who wants to do something about their drinking problem.

Gamblers Anonymous (GA)

www.gamblersanonymous.org

Gamblers Anonymous is here to help people who think they might have a gambling problem. If you think you have a gambling problem, we are here to help. Come to a meeting and learn about Gamblers Anonymous. No dues or fees. Just Show up, you will be welcomed. Give yourself permission to ask for help. We’ve learned that sheer willpower isn’t enough to overcome compulsive gambling.

Suicide Prevention

www.iasp.info/suicidalthoughts

If you are feeling suicidal, you are not alone and there is support available. You deserve to feel supported. Experiencing thoughts of suicide/self-harm is very distressing, if you are considering suicide or self-harm or are in danger, please call your local emergency services immediately to ensure your safety. Talking about how you are feeling could help alleviate some of your distress. You might want to talk to someone close to you. Or if you prefer you could speak to volunteers who have been trained to listen by contacting a helpline (many services offer a range of mediums such as text, email, calls, or face-to-face).

Clean Time

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