Nothing About Us Without Us
Guest Speaker: Carly Monks
In this episode titled “Nothing About Us Without Us”, we speak to Carly Monks and learn about her lived experiences with substance misuse and dependence, and now recovery.
Carly is a volunteer in NHS recovery services, and the conversation begins with her opening up about her struggles with substance misuse and what led her to seek recovery. She details how recovery services helped turn her life around, and how she does not think she would be “here today without them”. Whilst emphasising the importance of recovery services, she educates about the different types offered, and which worked best for her and why.
The conversation then shifts to Carly discussing her motivations for recovery. Initially, her being a mother to 3 children was at the forefront of her motivation. However, she later realised that recovery wasn’t just for her children, it was for herself, too. This shift in perspective was really important for Carly as it allowed her to take ownership of her recovery journey. Later, Carly addresses the stigmas surrounding being a parent with an addiction and shares how she has encountered and tackled them.
Now as a volunteer in recovery services, Carly makes it clear that she wants to give back to the very services that helped her. She shares more about what she’s learned throughout her own recovery and how they have influenced her future professional goals. In doing so, she describes some challenges faced by volunteers in the recovery space. Specifically, how to walk the line between patient and professionals, whilst being neither. Carly shares her perspective on navigating this space and how it has further informed her understanding of recovery support.
Carly's story offers a unique insight into the challenges and triumphs of being a parent with addiction, highlighting how recovery services not only provide a safe space for seeking help but also empower individuals to give back by supporting others on their own recovery journeys
Listen now on Spotify
Resources:
News article about Hounslow Alcohol and Drug Support Services
A new phase: Recovery Day Programme launches in Hounslow
Having trouble accessing any of the resources? Contact us at cravingclaritygroup@gmail.com, and we will be happy to provide it for you!