Bradley

Drugs & Alcohol

When I first met The Salvation Army my life was in complete disarray. I had lost everything that I had ever worked for and I was facing a lengthy prison term. I was involved with heavy gangs, dealing drugs, and methamphetamine had taken over my life.

I felt I was at rock bottom. I had no self respect any more.

Everybody around me was affected. I burned people very badly, especially my own family and close friends. I ripped them all off, disrespected them and stole off them.

I was in court every second week for drug-related offences and The Salvation Army at the courthouse spent a lot of time with me.

I had no idea what to expect when I started talking to The Salvation Army at court, but I was open and very willing to change, because I was so sick of where I was. Although I had no capacity to feel anything much at the time, I knew I had to do something because things were so wrong.

My determination to change saw me fast-tracked into the Bridge Programme, and a lot of people seemed to show an interest in my welfare.

My family has been my best support network. Having my mother come to Recovery Church every Tuesday night and having one-on-one counselling sessions whenever I needed them has been a huge boost.

It’s been a year-and-a-half since I graduated from the programme. I’ve regained respect from my family and I’m getting on with my life.