Early Roadblocks

Mike A., 33, grew up homeschooled in a large family and felt unprepared when he entered a big high school. He discovered partying as a social outlet.

“I drank alcoholically from the start,” he said. “By the time I turned 21, I’d stop at a liquor store every day after work to buy a fifth of Yukon Jack, and I’d drink it on my ride home.”

He cycled through jobs and relationships until, at age 26, he entered treatment for what he called a “spin-dry.” He left sober but without a long-term plan.

“I thought I could do it by myself,” he admitted. “But I hadn’t changed my lifestyle or faced my issues.”

After a devastating personal loss—his best friend’s suicide—Mike relapsed. He tried the same detox center three times in five months, each time thinking he could handle it on his own.

“I’d get sober, leave and then pick up again,” he said. Eventually, he realized he needed a new environment and a deeper program. He discovered Swift River. “After 32 days here, I can confidently say it was the best decision of my life,” he said. “The staff truly cares, and they teach you how to live, not just how to get sober.”

A Long-Term Solution

To avoid slipping back into old habits, Mike chose a farm-based men’s program after Swift River. He cared for animals ranging from chickens to draft horses, waking up early to feed them and tend to daily chores.

“They can’t feed themselves, so you learn responsibility,” he said. “It gave me structure and a reason to get up that went beyond myself.”

When he completed the program, Mike decided not to return to his old hometown.

“I moved to New Hampshire for a fresh start,” he said. He regularly calls a friend he met at Swift River, and he shares his struggles and triumphs with supportive loved ones. “Recovery is a daily commitment, but it’s one I’m willing to make. I’m even talking about starting a family someday—something I never thought possible.”

Get Help Today

If you or someone you love is ready for a life-changing experience, call Swift River at 888-451-5895. Situated in Western Massachusetts, Swift River equips individuals with evidence-based therapies, compassionate guidance and aftercare planning for a successful transition into lasting sobriety.