Dan is joined by Howa, a brave woman who shares her harrowing life story involving childhood sexual abuse, mental health struggles, and a battle with addiction spanning over 20 years. Despite multiple suicide attempts and ongoing relapses, Howa remains determined to beat her demons through creative outlets like writing poetry and pursuing a degree in forensic psychology. This raw, emotional episode provides insight into addiction's roots and the failings of the mental health system, while offering hope to those fighting similar battles that recovery is possible if they stay vocal and keep fighting.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Childhood trauma like abuse can lead to escapism through addiction later in life. Speaking out early is key.
• The link between addiction and mental health issues is strong but not well addressed by the current system.
• Relapse is part of recovery - staying determined and vocal is vital. There is hope.
• Creativity like writing is an outlet that helps process and share your pain.
• Educating kids on addiction early could help them avoid future substance abuse.
• Building a support network and routine helps manage addiction and mental health.
• Rehab is inaccessible for many - more community services are needed.
• Past suffering makes you want to stop others from going through the same pain.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I picked up my first drink at 13. I've literally never been a sophisticated drinker, I fucking hate the taste of drink."

"I can remember one instance with my ex-partner, he overdosed on tramadol in my arms. He went into a coma for 10 days."

"I feel like I'm trapped and here come the suicide thoughts, because through all of the madness you thought I would have self-taught."

"When I make it to 40, it's very hard to see, addiction is ugly and spreads like a disease."

"Oh, wow. Wow. Powerful stuff, man. You are, man. You are a, you're a woman of my own heart."

"Past suffering makes you want to stop others going through the same pain."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk

CONTACT METHOD

Instagram

Facebook

Twitter

ABOUT THE HOSTS

Daniel O’Reilly

Daniel O’Reilly is one of the UK’s Largest Influencers, a comedian, actor, musician, viral video star and social influencer. With a portfolio of businesses Daniel enjoys a busy lifestyle mixed with business and pleasure. Daniel is a father to two beautiful girls and enjoys spending quality time with them and his wife Shelley. With 2022 being a busy year, Daniel sold out his O2 stand-up show, released his British movie 'The Last Heist'  and is currently preparing for the upcoming release of his other film 'Miss The Kiss'. Daniel is a creative through and through, with a passion to strive in everything he does. Daniel is looking forward to the release of his podcast 'Menace 2 Sobriety' in 2023, his long-term position on GB News, Headliners, and the growing slate of films in the works with his production company, HYPRR. 

Sobriety Podcast #wedorecover # recoveroutloud #addicitonrecovery #addiction #recoverytok #sobriety #sober #sobertiktok #sobertok #soberlife #sobercurious #soberliving: https://www.instagram.com/dappersinstagram/