Breaking Free: One Local Man’s Battle With Addiction And His Message Of Hope

Substance abuse can tear apart lives, families, and futures — yet for many men across the UK, it feels like there’s no way out. Studies by organisations like UK Addiction Treatment (UKAT) show that men are more than twice as likely as women to become addicted to substances like cocaine. Behind every statistic is a real person, struggling in silence. But recovery is possible.

William, a Skelmersdale resident, shares his personal experience of drug use and his road to recovery.

William’s first encounter with cocaine came on his 21st birthday, when a friend gave him some as a ‘gift’ to help him celebrate.

Feeling instantly exhilarated and confident, the drug soon became part of his nights out.

Feeling in control, unknown to William, cocaine was tightening its hold as the drug took over his life, leading him to borrow and steal to fund his addiction. Desperate to stop, but unable to do so, addiction took its toll financially, mentally, and emotionally, impacting his marriage and family life, even choosing cocaine over his own children, believing it was all ok as they were still being provided for.

As William says, “Cocaine had me in its grip.”

Often in tears and not wanting to use anymore, he couldn’t see a way out.

His turning point came when he found the 12 Step Programme, replacing addictive thoughts and behaviours with positive, achievable goals.

Today, 18 months later, he is clean, sober, and rebuilding his life. He says, “Cocaine takes you to a dark place and steals you away from everything you love… but there is a solution, and there are plenty of options for help right here in our hometown and beyond.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, whether drugs or alcohol, support is available.

West Lancs ARK – 07826 656 387

or email westlancsark@hotmail.co.uk

Turn2Us – 01695 270 020

Drinkline – 0300 123 1110

We Are With You (Under 25s) – 0808 164 0074

Alcoholics Anonymous – 0800 9177 650 or email help@aamail.org

FRANK – 0800776 600

Combat Stress (Current and Ex-Armed Forces) – 0800 1381 619 or text 07537 173 683

Inspire – 0808 1698 673

CAUK Helpline – 0800 6120 225