During early childhood and throughout my adolescence, I lived in chaotic and toxic environments that I could not control. My parents argued frequently, and the mood in my household was ... Read More

My name is Louise Rowlinson, and I’m a sober blogger. I have been in recovery from alcohol addiction for about four and a half years. I want to share with you my personal story of ... Read More

Back when I was really starting to circle the drain with my alcoholism, I often showed up to work with truly epic hangovers. These widescreen wastelands in my brain could have been directed ... Read More

In June 2017, I was diagnosed with metastatic sarcoma. I went from being a healthy, practicing therapist who worked three jobs while also caring for my two children and husband, to being ... Read More

This year, I chose to stay home over the holidays. I didn’t choose to stay home because I don’t love my family or because I didn’t want to see them. I chose to stay home for the ... Read More

Three years ago my life changed overnight when I suddenly and very unexpectedly lost my best friend Diana. I can’t begin to describe the shock I experienced, or the depth of pain ... Read More

Always too bothered about what others thought—that was me, for the longest time. I would waste hours worrying about things that did not need so much consideration. Isolating myself from ... Read More

I made a new friend. I didn’t want to meet her. I wanted to pretend she wasn’t there, but she just wouldn’t go away. She was always with me, everywhere I went. I ignored her for months, ... Read More

My story begins with my parents’ story. My father, who is from Sicily, has spent his entire life working, quite successfully. Ever the money-oriented man, he ensured he always had ... Read More

Growing up, all I ever wanted was to fit in. Throughout childhood, I really only had one or two friends. I never knew what to say around people. I just got nervous and would say nothing ... Read More

Editor’s note: The account that follows may be upsetting for some readers. Names were changed to protect confidentiality. I was reflecting on a recent party we hosted and thought my friend ... Read More

In August of 2014, in the middle of the night, a phone call came: My son was unresponsive and was being transferred to the hospital. I remember the 30-minute drive to the hospital, trying ... Read More