By Laura Barcella

It’s not easy to watch the people you’ve been sober with decide to leave. But I’ve learned to not make it any harder on myself. MORE  

By Anna Davies

It’s taken over three years to finally get to the point where I know I can’t drink. MORE  

By Caledonia Dawson

Five years into my recovery, I'm on a nine-month trip through Asia and South America. And amid the drunkenness of the backpacking scene, I'm learning to be sober in a different way. MORE  

By McCarton Ackerman

Thirty years ago, Harriet Rossetto wanted to help rehabilitate Jewish prisoners. Then she realized addiction was their biggest battle. MORE  

By Samantha Dunn

I always knew alcoholism would kill my mother. But that hasn't stopped me from trying to understand why.  MORE  

By McCarton Ackerman

Anthony Kalloniatis' zany comic persona hid a secret life of meth, booze, blackouts—and enough arrests to secure regular invites to cop parties.  MORE  

By Mary Meehan

When I was newly sober, an alcoholic mother confessed her failings to me. Now that I'm a mom, I see her last act as unspeakably courageous. MORE  

By Amy Dresner

In my early twenties, I discovered speed. The affair was short but not at all sweet—unless you count the all Caramello bars. MORE  

By Carlos Herrera

I'm happy I know how to turn down my drinking buddies on the biggest partying night of the year. But that doesn't mean it's always easy. MORE  

By Taylor Ellsworth

I've quit smoking enough times to make me an expert. And I've learned something along the way: not everyone wants me to succeed.  MORE