Christmas is often associated with alcohol.
But for an alcoholic who can’t control their drinking, it can be a difficult time for both them and their loved ones. This year, recovering alcoholic, Linton Simmons, will be raising a glass of Christmas cheer to a fulfilling new life in sobriety.
As a former guest of The Retreat NZ turned member of staff, Linton’s youthful binge drinking spiralled into daily blackouts that culminated in job losses, hospital visits and arrests. “I was completely powerless to stop. I just about lost anything of meaning in my life,” he says.
A close friend researched The Retreat and Linton completed the alcohol rehab’s 30-day residential programme in February. He was introduced to the 12 steps of recovery and tools for living in sobriety. “Most significantly, it taught me that recovery was attainable, and I could get sober,” says Linton. “A definite standout was building connections and friendships with fellow alcoholics – likeminded people who understood me.”
He continues to stay closely connected to The Retreat in its sober living community and by helping fellow recovering alcoholics. He is close to completing the 12 steps of recovery with his sponsor and attends up to five recovery meetings a week, two of which he helps to run.
“My life is completely different and only for the better,” he says. “I have managed to rebuild family relationships, physically I’m the fittest I’ve ever been, and I’ve seen a huge improvement in my mental health. I’m a keen boxer and hiker – hobbies weren’t possible whilst I was in active addiction.”
This holiday season he will remain close to The Retreat and practising his programme of recovery daily, including service such as taking a living sober group at The Retreat with its guests. “Last Christmas, I was at the peak of my drinking,” says Linton. “The only plan I had was getting drunk and I only cared about where I could get my next drink. I had no tools, let alone any idea of how to stay sober.”
As an alcoholic’s drinking affects both them and their loved ones, his recovery also means a lot to his family. “I put my family through a lot,” Linton continues. “They are very proud of the progress I’ve made and the new life I’m leading. For my parents especially, alcohol took away their son and in sobriety they’ve got him back.”
This Christmas he will be enjoying quality time with his family and his partner’s family in Auckland. “Being sober means being present, which means I can actually enjoy and remember Christmas! If I had continued drinking, I’d have died or ended up in prison,” adds Linton. “I am extremely grateful for The Retreat and all of the incredible people who work there. The support has been tremendous, and it provided the foundation for my recovery.”
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