JASON HELPS ADDICTS

Hello, my name is Jason, and I am a recovering opiate addict after having struggled with my addiction for nearly ten years! I have been clean since 12-28-13 and wish to help all suffering from heroin and opiate pain killer addiction. After several failed attempts at sobriety, I have finally found stability in my life and the supportive tools necessary to stay sober. I owe my long-term success to a methadone maintenance program. I am a creative writer, avid book reader, tattoo artist, colored pencil artist, and researcher. Since my successful 'escape' from the clutches of heroin addiction, I have focused primarily on understanding the nature of addiction and recovery for better coping with it myself, as well as to benefit others. Though abstaining from drug use can prove difficult, it doesn't have to ruin your life. My intention in writing this blog is to promote awareness of successful recovery and continued abstinence from drug abuse and drug addiction. This blog is a tool for provoking discussion and reflection to ultimately provide an opportunity to teach, to learn, and to sift through the rubble of addiction's devastating effects. As I am a living, breathing testament that heroin addiction can be overcome and can become a source of immense strength and wisdom, I hope that this blog will stimulate conversation and insights that may help the 'outside world' (those not familiar with addiction and what addicts go through) understand that addicts are people, too. There is a massive stigma attached to anything to do with the word 'heroin', and I hope educating people will help annihilate the ignorance and judgment that makes life for addicts and their families that much harder. Nobody wakes up and says, "Boy, life is just too easy and great...I think I need to become a heroin addict." It is something bigger than a single decision, beyond a person's will power alone, and a disease that can be treated, prevented, and kill if not dealt with. Check back weekly for more blogs and educate yourself and others! Thanks for your interest and/or support.