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Yasmine grew up in a loving home in New Zealand and never really encountered drugs. But even in a great childhood, trauma can exist. In high school, Yasmine was sexually assaulted, an experience that shaped her early choices.

In her early to mid-twenties, she moved to Australia with a new partner and, from the airport, drove straight to a trap house. She spent years as a high-functioning addict, working retail jobs while slowly losing her mind to psychosis.

Back in New Zealand, after two pregnancies, she could no longer stay clean. Social services watched her every move. Multiple suicide attempts followed. At one point, police, including SWAT, surrounded her with lasers aimed at her.

And yet, it wasn’t all of that that made her stop. It was looking at her baby and realising, suddenly there were baby teeth, first words being spoken. Yasmine was missing the crucial years of her child’s life because of her addiction.

Trigger warning: This episode discusses vivid scenes of sexual assault and suicide. If you are not feeling mentally well, or if these topics are too close to home, I recommend skipping this one.

Ready to share your story? Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]

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Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.

The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015

⁠⁠⁠⁠https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/articles/support/national-alcohol-other-drug-hotline

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Creator & Host- ⁠⁠⁠⁠Julia Rangiheuea⁠⁠⁠⁠
Image & Logo- ⁠⁠⁠⁠Jasmine Rule⁠⁠⁠⁠

In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.