Backstory
During my week-long visit to Elisha House, a recovery project supporting individuals with a history of substance misuse, I had the privilege to meet Scott, a recovering Ketamine addict. He was open about the challenges he faced, and today, he maintains sobriety, engages in meaningful work, and supports other residents by sharing his experiences. Meeting Scott highlighted the resilience required in recovery and the vital role of community support and professional guidance in helping individuals overcome addiction.
Can you tell me a little about your life before addiction?
I was just a normal child, going to school, doing what the other kids used to do, play the Xbox daily, play out, knock a door and run, etc. A normal life, a happy life.
When did you first start using substances?
When I was 12, me and my mate used to steal weed out of his mum’s house.
Were there any particular events that contributed to your addiction?
When I was 15, I was at my mate’s house smoking weed, and his dad was sniffing in the kitchen. He set a line up on the side and asked if I wanted one. Me being young and dumb, I said yes. With the feeling I got from it, I wanted more, and from then I was sniffing most weekends at 15.
How did addiction affect your daily life and relationships?
It affected my daily life as I wouldn’t do anything without sniffing ketamine. I felt as if I needed it at all times so that I could live a normal life. It affected my jobs and got me banned from driving. It affected my relationships as with my family, they were always worried sick, wondering if I was going to be dead one day. I put them through so much trouble due to my addiction. It affected other relationships as I couldn’t maintain a love life because I would always choose drugs over them.
What motivated you to seek help and start recovery?
What motivated me to seek help was being in pain for years, with cramps, urinating blood daily, being on death’s door, crying myself to sleep at night wishing I was dead. I knew I had to get help—there was no other way for me.
Can you describe the steps you took to recover?
I went to Inspire weekly for about a year, then they introduced me to Elisha House Youth Project. I went to that, which massively helped me. It made me feel normal and made me feel like I had a chance. I started going to meetings as well as doing Zoom calls on a Tuesday with Elisha House. Then luckily, I managed to get into Elisha House 6 months ago, and since then have done what’s been asked of me. Now, thanks to them, I’m 6 months clean.
How has your life changed since recovery?
Since being in recovery, my life’s changed massively. From doing step work, I now have God in my life. I’ve become a much better person, and I would like to think I’m improving daily. My body is on the mend. I’m physically and mentally in such a better place now. My family are proud of me. Life just keeps getting better.
What strategies do you use to stay sober?
To try to stay sober, I try to keep myself safe. I stay around like-minded people as well as family. I don’t put myself in bad predicaments where I might use. Other things I do are pray daily, speak to people about where my head’s at, and I like to keep myself busy (go to the gym).
What advice would you give to someone currently struggling with addiction?
You’re not alone. You can get the help you deserve. Talk to people, don’t keep it to yourself. Seek help and you will get it.
How has recovery impacted your perspective on life and relationships?
It’s impacted my perspective on life and relationships for the better. I look at life better now. I feel like I can live a normal life free from drugs and alcohol and have a good future. I look at relationships better than how I previously did in addiction.