Ciaran Bates

Growing up in a violent home with an abusive alcoholic father I was subjected to mental, physical and sexual abuse. Above all the mental abuse had the most impact on the rest of my life. I started black out drinking at the age of 12 and I progressed through various different drugs to my drug of choice, cocaine. My 22 years of active addiction lead to a very dark place and immense loss. In 2006 I managed to quit using drugs but failed to realize the importance of dealing with my childhood experiences. 15 years later through a series of events my childhood trauma re-emerged which lead me to a relapse. Ending up in rehab for the first time in my life at the age of 50 was the stark realisation that I hadn't processed all my trauma and abandonment issues. With everything to lose I focused on my recovery and dealing with my inner demons. Today I can say I am fully recovered from my addictions, childhood trauma, low self esteem and hurt. Through my own experiences I am able to bring light to the addiction recovery space and help others in need.