We recently had the privilege of sitting down with one of our inspiring colleagues Jonathan also known as Recoveryjon, who has not only experienced a transformative journey through addiction recovery but has also dedicated his life to helping others find hope and healing. In our interview, he reflects on his most pivotal moments during treatment, the strategies that helped him maintain long-term sobriety, and how he continues to support those battling addiction today.
1. Reflecting on your journey, what was the most pivotal moment during your detox and treatment that led you to truly commit to recovery?
The most pivotal moment during my treatment was the first time I woke up feeling safe and not withdrawing from the drugs anymore. That was the first time in years I had felt like a normal person, and it helped to have people who really cared about me.
Could you share how that moment influenced your outlook on addiction and healing?
Honestly, it gave me hope—hope that I could have a normal life again and feel good without needing to take a drink or a drug. Also, having a place like Still Detox that makes you feel comfortable starts to open your mind to letting other people help down the road, like therapists, outpatient programs, and even the 12 steps.
2. Your book has resonated with many people struggling with addiction. What inspired you to document your experiences, and what message did you hope readers would take away from it?
After losing many friends to addiction and my brother to suicide, I realized that so many people I loved were losing their battle with addiction and mental health issues unnecessarily. I understood that most of it came down to people being afraid to ask for help. So, I wanted to be very open and honest about my story to give hope to others—that there is hope for sobriety and that it’s okay to ask for help.
3. During the early days of recovery, what strategies or practices helped you the most in maintaining your sobriety and mental well-being?
Honestly, first and foremost for me was the 12 steps and attending meetings in early recovery. Creating a bond with other addicts and alcoholics that I could relate to and look up to was essential. From there, it became my whole “Get Lifted” mentality—spiritually, physically, and mentally. Personally, prayer, working out and running, reading, and meditation helped set me right each day.
Were there specific moments when these strategies became essential?
Absolutely. The most important times to utilize these practices were when life got hard—loss, work, relationships, and money issues. I noticed that these challenges didn’t affect me as much day-to-day if I was feeling right by taking these steps daily.
4. Addiction is often accompanied by stigma and isolation. How did you rebuild your relationships and sense of community after completing treatment?
I was always so scared to tell my parents I needed help or inform my family that I had gone back to rehab. Honestly, I was blessed that, if anything, everyone was extremely proud of me for getting help each time and being honest enough to ask for help.
5. Helping others in recovery is now a significant part of your life. What are some of the most common struggles you see among those seeking help, and how do you guide them through those challenges?
The biggest issue I often see is the stigma addicts put on themselves—being afraid to ask for help. I always say, “Your family doesn’t want to see you die from this. They’ll be happy when they have the real you back.” I share my story of how my parents were sometimes a little mad, but they were always happy to see me get well. And if someone doesn’t have family, there are people like myself all over the internet waiting to help guide them.
6. Maintaining long-term sobriety can be a lifelong effort. How do you personally sustain your sobriety today, and what habits or routines have become integral to your lifestyle?
I sustain my sobriety by continuing to grow spiritually every day. Whether that’s in the gym, church, praying, reading, meditating, going to meetings, or just doing the next right thing, these habits keep me grounded. Helping others also keeps me accountable.
7. Addiction affects both the mind and body. How did you approach the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of healing during and after treatment?
Right away, I changed everything. I started praying every morning on my knees, something I hadn’t done since I was 13. Daily, I began running, lifting weights, listening to motivational videos on YouTube, and following other sober creators (though there weren’t many back then). I also started drinking daily smoothies and eating more protein. My motto became, “Nothing changes if nothing changes.”
8. Writing a book about personal struggles can be a vulnerable process. How did sharing your story publicly impact your recovery, and did it change your perspective on your journey?
Honestly, it was amazing how it impacted my recovery in many ways. First, it reinforced the fact that we can inspire so many with our story and that we have a purpose. It definitely added some pressure that holds me accountable for my sobriety since my story is public. It also showed me that there’s always more to your journey, and it’s important to take things one day at a time. I’m grateful for all that God has provided for me through this process.
9. For those who may feel hopeless or overwhelmed by addiction, what advice would you offer to encourage them to take that first step toward recovery?
There is always hope. I remember having warrants, my health failing, and thinking I had no future. Today, I have a life beyond my wildest dreams. The advice I’d offer is, “The worst-case scenario if you get sober is way better than the worst-case scenario of addiction.”
How can family and friends support their loved ones without enabling harmful behavior?
Not enabling a loved one who is struggling is honestly a tricky path to follow. I always suggest approaching the addict with love and letting them know they are safe and that it’s okay to ask for help. At the same time, you have to protect your own peace if the addict doesn’t want help. Professionals like interventionists can walk families through this process, or people can feel free to message me on social media anytime.
10. Looking ahead, what are your goals in terms of advocacy, outreach, and helping others in recovery?
I always try to stay connected to my roots—helping as many people as I can to find hope and get the help they need. My goal is to eliminate the stigma of addiction and show people that it’s okay to ask for help.
Are there any new projects or initiatives you are working on that you’d like to share with us?
I will keep posting my journey on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook to show that sobriety is possible and hopefully share some lessons I pick up along the way. I’m grateful to be partnered with Still Behavioral Health, helping connect those in need with support. I’m also working on a second book and currently recording this season of the Addicts Truth podcast on YouTube, sponsored by Still Behavioral Health. I’m excited to see where my partnership with this amazing team at Still goes and continue to do God’s work as much as possible.
Whether it’s through sharing his story, guiding others, or working on new initiatives, our colleague’s commitment to breaking the stigma of addiction continues to inspire. His journey reminds us that recovery is possible, and with the right support, life after addiction can indeed be fulfilling.
We are grateful for his honesty and dedication, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact he will continue to make.
