Recovery Matters Podcast Episode 47 | Hosts Phil and Sandy Valentine share deeply personal stories about their college experiences and the challenges they faced with addiction. They explore the impact of alcohol and substance use on their academic and personal lives, addressing issues like anxiety, guilt, and shame. The discussion highlights the importance of creating recovery-friendly environments on college campuses and promoting a lifestyle that prioritizes mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. They emphasize the need for honest conversations about drug use, recovery support systems, and the role of spirituality in healing. Sandy also touches on her recent efforts to integrate recovery support services at the University of Connecticut. The episode concludes with a plea for more responsible social media behavior to help destigmatize recovery and addiction.

00:00 Introduction to Recovery Matters Podcast

00:26 Reflecting on College Days

01:19 Struggles and Guilt in College

04:52 Social Anxiety and College Life

07:44 The Impact of Alcohol and Drugs

12:27 Academic Challenges and Probation

14:02 A Lifelong Struggle with Addiction

23:54 Redemption and New Beginnings

29:46 Returning to Academia

31:15 Navigating Academic Anxiety

33:07 Understanding Collegiate Recovery

34:52 Challenges of a Recovery-Hostile Environment

39:23 Promoting a Sober Lifestyle

51:07 Creating a Recovery-Friendly Campus

56:43 Final Thoughts and Reflections

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