"My Asha Journey"

I arrived at Asha 4 weeks ago terrified, anxious to be honest still a bit drunk.  I was instantly put at ease and greeted at the door by a lovely nurse who welcomed me to Asha.  I had been working with community addictions services at St Lukes in Armagh for nearly a year trying to reduced and cut down my alcohol consumption which was working somewhat but I knew We both felt I needed to do more.

I was enrolled on the waiting list and very luckily got a spot within weeks.  My journey has been fantastic. In less than four weeks I feel a completely different person.  My first week was a little bit freaky I was put on librium and felt very relaxed and slept soundly every night. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the poignant videos and attending some of the groups.  The second week I got to meet the fabulous Dr Kinch who I am in totally awe of to say the EMDR sessions work is a total understatement.  It was also very refreshing to get a diagnosis quickly for something i knew all along but being confirmed made me feel acknowledged.

The group sessions were although difficult (as in having to admit to strangers you have addiction problems) they were very powerful and worthwhile. No one was there to judge just to understand, help and advise. I've kept all my paperwork to look back on for when times get difficult (which I know will happen in the real world).

On a practical note the food is lovely albeit a little a tiring week after week but you will always find something.  The staff are incredible and every single one of them wants the best outcome for each individual who attends Asha.  The routine is strict but I've come to value that and its definitely the most important thing I'm introducing outside to my new life.  The compulsory AA and NA meetings and Art and Meditation classes are so worthwhile.  There's a reason they've been made compulsory. Believe in 'The Journey' you wont regret it. If you put in the work it DOES work.

Overall I would 100% recommend attending if the opportunity is offered to you.

Goodluck on your venture and welcome to a new you post Asha.