The Gear Was My Killer

Steve, 32, Wellington. (Themes drawn from actual experiences, adapted for privacy)

My drug habit killed the enjoyment in my life.

Looking back on things it’s obvious that I had a drug problem. I can’t believe I missed it, but I guess I didn't really take it seriously. I thought that when I chose to do something about it I'd be able to control it - trouble was it had a hold on me.

I ended up doing a six month lag (jail term) for possession and supply.

When I got out I wanted to stay on the straight and narrow. I got a good job and I tried to pick things up again with my girlfriend, but within a few months I’d lost the lot - my girl and my job.

I bumped into a guy I hadn’t seen since jail. He used to be real messy, but now he wasn't talking s**t all the time. He said he’d done a programme at The Salvation Army Bridge after hitting rock bottom and that his life had completely changed for the better. I don’t really believe in ‘rock bottom’ but I’d had a guts-full. My life was heading one way - and that was downhill!

So I phoned the Sallies and made an appointment to see someone. Long story short, it wasn’t easy and I had to change my ideas about a lot of things. The programme provided me with routine, balance and direction, not to mention a feeling of belonging. It felt like they understood what people can’t understand if they haven’t been there.

That was two years ago. Today I’m doing an IT course, and I’m dating a girl who makes me really happy. The Salvation Army Bridge literally gave me the second chance that I wanted but couldn’t get on my own.

For more information on The Salvation Army Bridge and the services available click here or call 0800 50 00 00.