"6 months of sobriety thanks to Asha"

I left the Asha ward 5 months ago and am now celebrating 6 months of complete sobriety (by eating a beautiful meal and with no alcohol or drugs). I promised Eammon I would leave some feedback once I had some sober time.

I came to Asha as I was having no success in Woodlea. It was decided that I needed more intense therapy, which I totally agreed with.

When I came through the doors, I was greeted by the ward Manager Eammon. I was anxious as hell and really sweating, but Eammon has an approach which relaxed me straight away. Throughout my 4 weeks in Asha, I learned that when Eammon speaks, you listen! He gave me such important advice and he also supported my family, who had been through a lot because of my addiction and behaviour. 

I still remember most of the group work I done and carry that with me. Eammon took 3 groups when I was there and he just simply knew what he was at! He helped me so much. But so did all of the staff.

When I was coming up to discharge he referred me to two services, one of which I am still involved with and it is so important to my sobriety. 

All of the Asha staff were amazing from day one. That goes from Nurses, doctors, dinner staff and cleaners. I can't remember some names. They all seemed to work so well together and always seemed to be focused on my/our needs at all times. Eammon was a great leader of this crew. 

I could not have done this on my own. I have started my first ever job 2 weeks ago and now feel whole for the first time. I was getting more money on benefits but as the staff said to me work can give me a purpose, routine and structure. And the staff are BIG on structure on Asha during your stay, which sets you up in the best way. 

I am really emotional when writing this as Asha saved my life. I planned to end things if I couldn't get help. Thank god Asha staff are so keen to help! It's like they were all hand-picked to do what they do. 

This place needs more credit for what they do. They are literally life savers with smiles. For anyone reading this please give Asha a chance if you have lost all hope. They will help you find hope again and save you.