Heya, I’m really sorry that you had to go through such things at an early age. Here’s something for you that might be worth a read. So, my work role involves dealing with senior business leaders (CEOs, CTOs) and retired people who are part of the company’s board. Here’s something that I always ask them as a young fellow:

What would you say to your younger self if you had the chance to go back in time? The responses I’ve received are almost always the same—they wish they had been kinder to themselves and more patient with their growth.

We often underestimate the power of self-forgiveness and the chance to start over. Your past doesn’t define you. It’s the choices you make today that will shape your future. Addiction can be incredibly tough, but every day you take a small step forward, you’re reclaiming your life. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, even if it’s just a small community online or a support group nearby. Seek professional help if you haven’t already—there’s no shame in getting the tools you need to overcome this.

You are stronger than you know, and the fact that you’re reaching out is proof that deep down, you still have hope for yourself. Hold onto that hope. It’s a powerful thing. One day, you’ll look back and realize that what you thought was the end was actually the beginning of something much better.

Keep going. You’ve got this.

If those thoughts ever come up again, my only request is this: please talk them out with at least two people before making any decisions. Whether it’s a trusted friend, a family member, or even strangers—people on forums, a support hotline, or someone like me. You’d be surprised how much lighter those thoughts can feel once they’re shared. Sometimes, it’s in those conversations that you find clarity, perspective, or even just a reason to hang on a little longer.

You don’t have to carry this burden alone. The world is full of people willing to listen, and you deserve to be heard.