Growing up, Gerald experienced trauma, instability, and had access to an abundance of alcohol and drugs. At a young age, he felt desperate to be a part of a family and joined a gang. He was active in his gang for over two decades and landed in prison. When he was released, he wanted to stay sober, but didn’t want to go to a ‘facility.’ He fell into old habits – his addiction.
“I was so ashamed that I didn’t leave my house.”
Isolation only fueled his use. While using, he experienced psychosis and was arrested and taken to the hospital.
The morning after, Gerald went to detox and decided to commit himself to recovery at a treatment center this time…
“I’m trying to stop generational trauma and generational addiction and forge a path that nobody else in my family has.”
With his experience in prison, he struggled with the idea of a residential treatment facility – assuming it would feel like a similar environment. He was so happy to find that his stay at Fora Health was not another prison sentence. As he approached the completion of his residential treatment, Gerald knew he needed more support.
He was encouraged to participate in Fora Health’s outpatient program. With the support of his counselor, meetings, and other programming, Gerald has found a greater understanding of himself and is finding his peace.
For many years, Gerald intimately knew his anger in a world of drugs, abuse, and violence. He said classes, like nonviolent communication changed his attitude towards confrontation and helped him learn a new approach.
“I haven’t had hate or an angry moment or raised my voice in a long time. That’s new for me.”
Today, Gerald makes recovery the most important part of his everyday life. He is thankful for his another chance – a new life in recovery. When you give to Fora Health, you give a new life in recovery to someone, like Gerald.