"It’s heartbreaking to realize that I’ve lived my whole life without knowing how beautiful I am…all the unnecessary energy I’ve wasted worrying about what other people think of me.

I believe it would be an even greater tragedy if I continued to exist on this planet without ever having experienced the feeling of earnestly being grateful for how amazing I really am. I may not necessarily conform exactly to society’s standards, but that does NOT render me “less than” or “not good enough”. Don’t I have enough proof by now that I am actually quite remarkable?

It’s time to stop this ridiculous cycle of self-doubt and self-sabotage and self-sabotage! I mean, think about it…what would I say to me if I were someone looking in from the outside?

THIS IS MY TIME! THIS IS MY YEAR! THIS IS MY LIFE AND IT’S THE ONLY ONE I’VE GOT. I WILL DO THIS. I AM DOING THIS…AND I FEEL IT INSIDE OF ME MORE AND MORE EVERY DAY. (Amen.)"

--J.D.

"I chose to enter Brookside as a drunk, angry, tormented soul with everything to lose and everything to gain – loving family, successful business, and creative pursuits that geed my passions. The choice was mine – take the path of darkness and suffering, or place my trust in a group of people I didn’t know, who claimed that they cold help me learn new tools for battling my addiction with alcohol.

I chose the path of trust and faith. I have approached my treatment with an open mind to what Brookside has to teach me, and I have gained a better understanding of the addiction that can control me, but more important – new tools for battling it so I can live in sobriety.

I thought thirty days was enough time when I started the program. I relapsed and entered another thirty days of treatment. I now attend the outpatient program so I can continue to learn from the experts on addiction. For me, recovery has been a process of success and relapse – each time, gaining more knowledge about myself. I believe the longer a person can participate in the Brookside treatment program; the likelihood of continuing recovery is great.

Through cognitive behavioral therapy, I gain from learning about the experiences of others and realize I am not alone in my battle with addiction. Through individual therapy, I gain insight into my issues that can hinder my personal growth. Brookside’s approach of treating the entire person – emotional, physical and spiritual – really works. The therapists are genuinely committed to helping each individual achieve sobriety.

Commitment and continuing education about addiction have been my keys to success. If an addict is willing to be honest in their quest to be sober and willing to be patient with the process of recovery, they can experience a rewarding life without drugs or alcohol.

'Patience you must have, until the mud settles and the water becomes clear.' – Yoda

--J.G.

"Brookside has aided me in something I have needed for a long time, and my gratitude is great.  Everytime I walk into the Institute, I know that I am in a place that saved my life.  (Without being too dramatic, It has changed my life).  There are some people that have ultimately hit rock bottom, and I was lucky enough not to have done anything to myself or another that hurt me in a way we only see on TV.  I was lucky.

If thats why this program 'worked' (or is working) for me,... then so be it!  Some say you dont have to hit rock bottom to seek help.  I was that person. I was the person that knew he was in trouble, and because I found you, Brookside helped me.

  I just wanted to say thanks."

--K.H.