I look at the woman across from me and so much of my story is in her face. I see the familiar lines of grief and despair. The desperation for change but fear of being alone in the unknown.  “When does it become worth it?” she asks.

I don’t know how to answer her question because “worth it” doesn’t mean no pain.

When I struggle to understand myself and manage my emotions, I do not think clearly and this directly impacts how I make choices. Instead of making choices to care for myself, I will compulsively use unhealthy coping behaviors that help ease the pain of my trauma. Studies show that up to 95% of those suffering from addiction have experienced trauma.

“Each time a women comes to a community gathering, her brain, body and soul gradually heal as she has repeated experiences of healthy relationships where she practices self-regulation and focuses intently on using self-reflection.”

— NAOMI Core Concepts