‘Recovery is possible,’ Valley survivor tells her story overcoming alcoholism
‘Recovery is possible,’ Valley survivor tells her story overcoming alcoholism WHSV
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HARRISONBURG, Va.
Overcoming Alcohol Addiction: A Journey Towards Recovery
In 2008, the United States faced a mortgage crisis, the Beijing Olympics took place amidst unrest in Tibet, and Former President Barack Obama was elected for his first term in office. It was also the year when Ragan McManus embarked on her journey to overcome alcohol addiction after years of self-destructive behavior and binge drinking.
The Impact of Alcohol Use Disorder
According to a survey conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in 2022, approximately half of the respondents aged 12 and older reported drinking alcohol within the last month. Additionally, one in ten people reported suffering from Alcohol Use Disorder, and 44% reported binge drinking within the last month.
A Personal Journey of Recovery
Ragan McManus, a survivor of alcohol addiction and the Deputy Director of Strength in Peers, works with individuals struggling with addiction and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) while continuing her own recovery journey. Ragan acknowledges that her relationship with alcohol was different from that of her friends, as she would often drink to oblivion, engage in risky behavior, and experience blackouts. Her substance abuse extended beyond alcohol, including marijuana and opioids.
The Wake-Up Call and Supportive Network
Ragan’s recovery journey began when her loved ones expressed their fear of losing her to addiction. Their concern served as a wake-up call, prompting her to seek help and make a change. Ragan emphasizes the crucial role played by friends and family in her recovery process.
Supporting Others in Their Recovery
As the Deputy Director of Strength in Peers, Ragan now assists individuals seeking hope and strength in their own recovery journeys. The organization focuses on active listening and tailoring resources to meet each person’s specific needs.
The Leap of Faith and the Importance of Recovery Organizations
Taking a leap of faith is often the biggest hurdle for individuals struggling with addiction. Ragan emphasizes the importance of seeking help and stepping out of one’s comfort zone. Recovery is an ongoing process, and organizations like Strength in Peers provide vital support and resources for those in need.
A Message of Hope
Ragan’s personal recovery story serves as a beacon of hope for others. She believes in the possibility of a fulfilling life after addiction and aims to inspire individuals facing similar challenges to make choices that prioritize their mental and physical well-being.
Guiding Others Towards Recovery
Ragan uses her knowledge and experiences to guide individuals in similar situations towards the path of recovery. She encourages them to envision their ideal lives and take action to make positive changes.
Resources for Help
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction or experiencing a mental health crisis, the 988 hotline is available 24/7/365 to connect you with the necessary care. Strength in Peers, located at 917 N. Main St. in Harrisonburg, Virginia, also offers support for individuals dealing with addiction and Substance Use Disorder. Additional resources and information can be found on their website.
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SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
The article discusses alcohol addiction, substance use disorder (SUD), and recovery, which are directly related to SDG 3, as it focuses on promoting good health and well-being. The article also highlights the importance of support from friends and family, indicating the relevance of SDG 10, which aims to reduce inequalities. Additionally, the article mentions the role of organizations like Strength in Peers in providing support and resources, aligning with SDG 16’s goal of promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol
- SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status
- SDG 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all
Based on the article’s content, the specific targets identified include SDG 3.5, which focuses on strengthening the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including harmful use of alcohol. SDG 10.2 is also relevant, as it aims to promote social, economic, and political inclusion for all individuals, regardless of their status, including those struggling with addiction. Additionally, SDG 16.3 is applicable, as it emphasizes promoting the rule of law and equal access to justice, which can be relevant in addressing the issues related to addiction and recovery.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Percentage of people reporting alcohol use within the last month
- Percentage of people suffering from Alcohol Use Disorder
- Percentage of people reporting binge drinking within the last month
The article mentions a survey conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, which provides indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. These indicators include the percentage of people reporting alcohol use within the last month, the percentage of people suffering from Alcohol Use Disorder, and the percentage of people reporting binge drinking within the last month. These indicators help assess the prevalence and impact of alcohol addiction and inform efforts to strengthen prevention and treatment.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol | – Percentage of people reporting alcohol use within the last month – Percentage of people suffering from Alcohol Use Disorder – Percentage of people reporting binge drinking within the last month |
| SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status | N/A |
| SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions | 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all | N/A |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: whsv.com
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