Early Life and the Beginning of Substance Misuse

Karl’s early twenties were more or less alcohol-free. His family moved from Yorkshire to Spain to open a bar, bringing together siblings who had dispersed across the region. Despite an idyllic childhood filled with love, family holidays, and close bonds, Karl struggled with mental health issues. The move to Spain, surrounded by family but away from home, coincided with the beginning of his significant alcohol use.

He describes feeling lost and disconnected, battling self-abandonment and never truly discovering who he was. Stress and emotional pain led him to turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism. Over time, his drinking escalated - from occasional use to a harmful addiction that dominated his life, every day.

The Impact of Alcohol

Karl’s addiction flourished over 30 years. He worked as a Stores Manager for a large firm, responsible for materials and goods worth millions. While he never drank during work hours, he would consume two to three bottles of wine every night after work. Time off meant binge drinking, sometimes lasting for weeks.

Throughout this time, Karl was a single father to a daughter who faced her own challenges, compounded by the substance misuse issues in both her parents. Karl managed to hide his problems from everyone except his parents, who remained a constant source of support.

He recalls moments of crisis, including a suicide attempt and multiple hospitalisations due to his alcohol consumption. “After my second marriage ended, I was lying on the living room floor, shaking and sweating in front of my mam and dad. They feared I might die from alcohol,” he says. Despite their efforts to help him sober up, Karl’s substance misuse persisted.

The Turning Point

Karl’s longest period of sobriety before his final recovery was just 10 weeks, despite 30-40 attempts over 30 years. He describes his addiction as a “monster in the cupboard” he had to confront before healing could begin.

The real turning point came after a severe binge following redundancy when his company moved to York. Karl was hospitalised with hallucinations and seizures. It was there he told the doctor, “I don’t want to drink anymore.” With medical support and medication, he began to feel normal again within three weeks - a moment he never thought possible.

Recovery and Spiritual Awakening

Karl’s recovery journey truly took off during the COVID-19 lockdown. With daily calls from a key worker at the East Riding Partnership and participation in online SMART recovery groups, he found the structure and support he needed. After a year online, he transitioned to in-person meetings, which he attended for two years.

He also embarked on a spiritual journey, which helped him rebuild self-worth and find peace. “I struggled with self-love and worthiness, but now I know I am good enough and worthy of a place in this world,” Karl explains. He no longer feels the need to drink and uses tools to ‘protect his sobriety’, such as meditation.

Karl’s recovery is not just about abstinence but a profound spiritual awakening. He embraces a new outlook on life, valuing self-worth, connection, and the simple joys of existence. He recognises the privilege of access to basic needs and is inspired by the growing movement of compassion and mutual support among young people.

Giving Back as a Peer Mentor

Today, Karl is a proud Peer Mentor volunteer with The Alcohol and Drug Service. He dedicates himself to supporting others who face the same struggles he once did. “I see so many people who can’t deal with life’s pressures. Addiction isolates, but recovery connects us. I want to help others find that connection and hope.”

Karl believes that small acts of kindness and support can start a “revolution of love and light.” He is inspired by young people asking meaningful questions about how to help each other and build a better future.

A Message of Hope

Karl’s story is a powerful reminder that substance misuse can affect anyone, regardless of background or circumstance. It also shows that recovery is possible  - with the right support, determination, and willingness to seek help.

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or drug addiction, The Alcohol and Drug Service is here to help. You don’t have to face it alone. Recovery is possible, and every journey begins with a single step.