Author: Contributor to The Sober Curator

When you’re journeying through sobriety, the path isn’t just long—it’s often winding, sprinkled with both bright days and dark nights. For those navigating this road, a strong, understanding relationship can be a beacon of hope and strength. But…keeping that relationship healthy and beneficial for both parties involves understanding a simple, yet profound truth: relationships are rarely ever a perfect give-and-take. Especially in sobriety, where one’s energy and emotional reserve can fluctuate dramatically, the concept of 50-50 can seem like a distant ideal. The secret is recognizing the importance of clear, open communication and valuing alone time becomes crucial in creating…

Earth Day is April 22nd, and our small changes can make a big impact on our planet.  This is a great time to consider how we can work together for a more sustainable future. Find some fresh air to breathe in, grab some organic snacks and a nice cup of herbal tea and enjoy these 5 ways to go green in recovery. 1. Nature Crafts Research shows that crafting has many benefits including reducing stress and improving self-confidence, mood and motor skills and alleviating symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Crafts keep us focused on the present and can be…

Americans’ alcohol consumption rates today look a lot like they did in 1939. Men’s Journal reported on a Gallup poll of adults across all fifty states, and it found that more than six in ten, or 65%, drink alcohol. Meanwhile, the number of nearsighted Americans has ballooned to 41.6% of the population, and nearly 20 million suffer from age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Given these numbers, it’s safe to say that there is an overlap between alcohol drinkers and those with ocular conditions. However, in terms of drinking and eyesight, does correlation equal causation? And can leaving alcohol behind create room…

In the bustling heart of New York City, something exciting is always happening. At the intersection of fashion, art, and innovation is this bespoke event; a collaboration between the iconic Wolf & Badger and dynamic Rehab Studios. I was running late due to an already overpacked schedule, cursing myself for not leaving my hotel sooner. Protesters outside the Louis Vuitton boutique in Soho, calling to end their use of exotic animal skin, had traffic backed up for miles. A giant red purse-shaped sign stated, “Louis Vuitton: A Look That Kills.” It’s fashion week. This is expected. I don’t have time to…

The American Society of Pharmacovigilance bookmarks March 24 as the National Adverse Drug Event Awareness Day. The reason why this day holds much significance is because it’s shining a spotlight on the often dangerous side effects drugs can have. For someone dancing the sobriety tango, this day holds extra weight because (as you may know) navigating medication while keeping one’s sobriety intact is pretty much like walking a tightrope. Drugs, even the ones doctors prescribe, can have reactions that are not just about the physical side of things but can tug at the emotional and mental stability that is so…

Ahhh, St. Patrick’s Day. It’s every active alcoholic’s wet dream. It’s the one day a year when getting drunk is celebrated rather than scolded, where everyone around you is guaranteed to be as much of a sloppy mess as you are, and shots are handed out like lollipops at the doctor’s office. For an alcoholic in recovery, however, it can be the day that most fill you with dread, with the first one most certainly being the hardest. The brain busts and the heartaches at what to do to grapple with this Kelly-green 800-pound gorilla of a sobriety nightmare. While…

When I walked into rehab, I had no idea that a simple task that THEY MADE ME DO would change the trajectory of my life.  For the first couple of days at the facility where I was, they let me decompress and not have a daily unit chore, BUT I had to make my bed every day, and yes, it was checked by staff.  I have no memory of my parents telling me to make my bed or even if I did before getting into recovery. I remember thinking, “What a stupid thing these people are making me do! Why…

March 2nd marks World Teen Mental Wellness Day, a day dedicated to transforming the way society approaches teen mental health conversations and breaking down the barriers of stigma that often shroud these discussions. This pivotal day shines a spotlight on the importance of acknowledging and addressing the mental health challenges faced by teens, which are more rampant than ever. With pressures coming from all sides–be it social media, academic expectations, or personal relationships–it’s no wonder the American Psychological Association labels Gen Z’s mental well-being as being in a precarious state. Yet, amidst these challenges, there’s a glimmer of hope. Teens…

If you walk into a twelve-step meeting in Olympia, Washington, you might be the only brown face in the room. The Pacific Northwest, while more diverse than it was in the past, is still a very white place. I really didn’t notice it while I was in the Army, this feeling of being other. The military is a great equalizer. You live, sleep, laugh, and cry with each other; you are united in so much commonality that you have no other option but to depend on one another. An old paratrooper brother of mine, Brandon, recently reminisced about the friends…

Starting on the journey to kick an addiction is tough for anybody. But imagine doing that while you’re also dealing with ongoing health issues. It’s like trying to climb a huge hill, and halfway up, a storm hits. You’re not just battling the urge to slip back into old habits, but you’re also wrestling with whatever health curveballs life’s thrown at you. It’s a two-front war that needs a battle plan tailored just for you, heaps of patience, and a truckload of determination. The Complexity of Managing Two Fronts Tackling sobriety when you’ve also got chronic illnesses or mental health…

Taking the leap into sobriety is a monumental step. It’s not just about giving up a substance; it’s about reclaiming your life, one day at a time. Amidst this journey, seemingly mundane tasks like commuting can either become stumbling blocks or stepping stones. But believe it or not, your daily drive can play a pivotal role in your sobriety journey. Mindful Commuting for the Win On the sobriety path, every second counts. That daily drive? It’s not just dead time. It’s untapped gold for grounding and growth. Turning your commute into a mindful moment means hitting pause on autopilot and…

Missing The Point Scrolling through Instagram recently I saw a notification for another new and improved sobriety coaching membership. I am all in favor of any group or club helping others explore sobriety. I was curious. The website listed familiar recovery logos, directly comparing them by cost, group size, and messaging. Since when was selling sobriety like selling a gym membership? “At our gym, we limit the size of the classes, use only state-of-the-art equipment, and promise body transformation by using our proven 1-2-3 method. We are unlike those other gyms that cost x amount of money and use outdated…

As The Sober Curator’s UK correspondent, it’s a joy to share some influencers from across the pond to add to your regular dose of sobriety content. As a sober gal in her first year of abstinence, social media has been a massive lifeline for seeking inspiration and support and adjusting the balance of hedonistic vs. holistic posts in my feeds. Here are my five favorite influencers to add some British accents to your collection of sober friends in your pocket. Abi Feltham Powerlifting, TikTok vlogging badass Abi Feltham takes the top of this list for her raw, honest accounts of…

Can you imagine walking into a house where every little thing is in its right spot—no stacks of papers on the counter, no clothes draped over chairs? It feels like a deep breath for the eyes. For someone working on staying sober, this kind of calm isn’t just nice to have; it’s like a secret weapon in a way. It’s all about making a space that feels good, where someone can be their best self, keep their head clear, and stay focused on what matters most. Tidying Up as Good for the Soul Now, think about the actual job of…

Three wives, three lives, one journey The story is a bit familiar: troubled youth, early exposure to substances, and running from oneself. Gahan grew up in Epping, UK, in the 60s with his mother and stepfather, who would pass away when Gahan was 10. He would find out later that his mother was keeping from him that his biological father was trying to reach out to him often during his youth. She did this for reasons known only to her. His biological parents had split when Gahan was an infant. Self-destruction is the pattern. Having no contact with his father…

In the latest episode of The Sober Curator, Kate Vitela sits down with Todd Kinney, an attorney, father of four, husband, and author of the inspiring book “I Didn’t Believe It Either.” The episode offers listeners a deep dive into Kinney’s journey to sobriety, his challenges with drinking, and the unexpected joys he discovered in an alcohol-free life. Todd Kinney’s decision to quit drinking didn’t come overnight. It was a gradual realization, bolstered by therapy, which led him to mark the significant transition between three to six months of sobriety. Initially, Kinney had reservations about joining a support group; however,…

When you embark on a journey of sobriety, it’s like starting a brand-new chapter in your life. As you transform yourself, it makes sense that your living space reflects your new direction. This isn’t just about redecoration–it’s about crafting an environment that echoes the new commitments you’ve made to yourself. By refreshing your surroundings, you’re setting the stage for the new, sober you. At the end of the day, however, it boils down to one simple thing: removing the triggers and temptations that former habits might have left behind and surrounding yourself with a space that’s brimming with positivity and…

Its 2024 and so many of us are scrambling to get our resolutions, our yearly words, our ins and outs, and just general life goals in line. As a fashion queen (yes, I just called myself a queen), I have spent the past few weeks reflecting on the forms of fashion I am putting out into the world. A very tough part of being a fashion content creator is trying to stay up with all the trends. Not only is it mentally exhausting, bad for the planet, but it can also really take a toll on one’s finances. And while…

Reaching a sobriety milestone is a monumental achievement because it’s a testament to someone’s strength, resilience, and commitment to a healthier way of life. But amid life’s hustle, sticking to this transformative path demands continuous dedication and support; this is where the beauty of short getaways lies as a means to commemorate these personal victories. Here’s what it comes down to a brief escape from the daily grind doesn’t just provide a well-deserved pat on the back–it’s a rejuvenating pause that can reinforce one’s commitment to sobriety. The Refreshing Break: A Reset for Mind and Body Just like any significant journey, the…

In the world of sports, athletes are celebrated for their physical prowess, technique, and indomitable spirit. However, beneath the surface of their impressive performances, many athletes grapple with a hidden adversary: addiction. While society often sees them as invincible, they are no less susceptible to the struggles of substance misuse than anyone else12. The Athlete’s Paradox: Performance and Pressure Performance-enhancing drugs have continued to evolve, driven by ‘advancements’ in doping strategies and improved drug testing detection methods1. Commonly used substances among elite athletes include alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, stimulants, and prescription opioids3. The intense pressure to perform, coupled with the physical…

Mike was a walk-on wide Receiver at Yale from 2001 to 2004, graduating as a history major. Although not an amazing athletic specimen at 5’9” and 150 lbs. Mike already showed a genius mind for the game with his understanding of defensive schemes. In fact, Mike has zero stats as a player but lettered all four years. In 2005, at 22, he was hired as an intern coach with The Broncos under the great Mike Shanahan. Between 2006 and 2021, he would coach with the Texans, the California Redwoods (UFL), The Redskins (now the Commanders), Browns, Falcons, and 49ers. Finally,…

Recovery’s Got Talent Will Feature Performers in Recovery in Dallas “Dallas Recovery’s got talent, YES WE DO. Dallas Recovery’s got talent HOW ABOUT YOU?” This classic cheer is right on for the upcoming auditions for Recovery’s Got Talent: Season 6 Show happening on March 7, 2024, at The Eisemann Center. This event showcases incredible people in the Dallas recovery scene doing what they love: singing, dancing, playing instruments, creating art, and performing. The bar is high so be ready to be entertained, amazed, and impacted. The contestants also share a bit of their stories. We meet some who have been neglecting…

Sharing personal stories on alcoholism and drug addiction recovery brings to light the human aspect of addiction, as reported by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. The stories people with addiction share demystify the truths about why people become addicted to certain substances and what it takes to recover. With that said personal stories can be effective in promoting recovery from addiction. How? Reading someone else’s uplifting journey towards sobriety can empower the reader to seek treatment, break the stigma surrounding alcohol and substance use disorder, and encourage the author to continue on their path to sobriety. That’s because stories…

Are you a parent in recovery struggling with your emotional sobriety & feeling anxious about whether or not you’re doing this parenting thing right? Are you a self-proclaimed perfectionist constantly worried about what others think of you? Do you feel childhood and family patterns repeating themselves in your marriage or relationships? Did the pink cloud fade a long time ago only to be replaced with the restlessness, irritability, and discontent of those familiar drunken days? Sobriety has given you the ability to be a high achiever, it’s given you your dream job and a beautiful family – but you’re still…

Taylor Swift’s ever-evolving fashion throughout her eccentric eras has been captivating. What’s remarkable is how her audience has transformed alongside her. Initially, she was embraced by innocent nine-year-old girls drawn to her catchy tunes and relatable lyrics. Fast forward to today, and her fan base has matured into a diverse crowd of 30+-year-old women capable of treating her concerts like adult outings. This evolution mirrors Taylor’s artistic growth, and it signifies her bond with her fans, who have navigated life’s twists and turns with her. Now, they attend her shows for the music and as an opportunity to savor an…

As of November 28th, I am officially two years sober. That is two years without a sip of alcohol. It’s not a one-off beer or a sneaky sip of wine. Not a champagne toast on New Year or a Guinness on St. Patrick’s Day. Never in a million years did I think I would be able to say this, and I never expected to say that with enthusiasm! Sobriety is a never-ending journey, and I keep learning more and more the longer I stay sober. Today, I wanted to talk about my first year of sobriety compared with my second…

“My mom goes better with gin,” was my typical answer when someone asked. She lives eight hours away, so visits tend to last several days. This was the first time I visited her sober in twenty years. My mother and I generally get along and there’s a lot of love between us. However, she inserts barbs where I still don’t expect them. I react despite years of therapy. “Do you think those pants are getting a little tight?” is one of her favs, & any reply that starts; “You think you’ve had it hard?” Being tipsy helped smooth over those…

As we get older, the quest for dopamine becomes more and more challenging. As little kids, Pixie Sticks and a Disney movie would give us the rush we needed, but adulthood presents us with overwhelming obstacles. Some expected, like bills and relationship struggles, and some unprecedented, like worldwide pandemics and politicians so divisive that I had to mute half of my family on Facebook. The want and need to feel joy, excitement, and contentment is a part of the human experience. We want to feel good. We want to be happy. But sometimes life throws us curveballs that lead us…

Amy Liz Harrison is the bestselling author of two memoirs, “Eternally Expecting: A Mom of Eight Gets Sober and Gives Birth to a Whole New Life…Her Own” and “Eternally Awkward: A Future Mom of Eight Reflects on Mysteries of Anxiety, ADHD, and Coming of Age in the 80’s.” As a mother and a writer, Harrison felt inspired to create the “Kiss Your Brain” series of children’s books in 2023. This series tackles the big mental health topics her family—and all families—face. With five stories written from a child’s point of view, this series addresses substance abuse, eating disorders, and other…

It’s hard to find a celebrity as misunderstood as Britney Spears. Plagued by paparazzi and invasive interviewers, the negative press surrounding Spears has created an echo chamber of speculation and negativity spanning her 30 years in the spotlight. So, when it was announced that her memoir would be published following the end of her 13-year conservatorship and censorship, Britney fans rejoiced everywhere. The Woman in Me, published in October 2023, is Britney’s testimony–a chance to set the record straight. After over a decade of an abusive conservatorship, censorship, and lack of access to her social media, through which she lost…