Some of you may know that January is Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month. Many of you also know helping people who struggle with substance use disorders is one of my top priorities as a state senator. What some of you may not know is why. This work is personal to me. I’m State Senator Jesse James, and this year, I am celebrating 28 years of sobriety from alcohol and drugs.
To mark Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month, I wanted to share my story in hopes it helps someone feel less alone, as addiction is one of the loneliest experiences a person can face. Addiction leads you down a path of broken relationships, unhealthy habits, and the slow erosion of who you are. But recovery offers a way back. I isolated myself from family and friends when I began drinking and using drugs; I was on a path to destruction.
However, I found my way back to a life filled with love, support, and respect, things that are often lost in addiction. But being honest is why I am sharing my story in the first place. I fell many times on my road to recovery. But I learned that relapse means recovery. You’re going to fall, and that’s okay. What matters is how you start again.
This journey to recovery helped me find myself and inspired me to create change. I changed my path from addiction to public service, and eventually serving as your state senator. My past is not something I am ashamed of; it is what fuels my passion. I used my experiences to carve a different path for my future, one I am proud of.
Throughout this month, I will be sharing resources, videos, and support for everyone affected by addiction. Together, we can create change and build communities rooted in understanding, compassion, and support. Each story is worth telling, because someone is out there listening and growing.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZqlJTt_uCsE
