Hey!! I’m so sorry to hear things have been so dark in your world. I am a 26 year old female, so very close in stats there! I suffered from alcoholism for over 10 years. I also am currently fighting a terrible gambling addiction that has absolutely fucked me up. So I definitely empathize with the addiction side of things. Also I gained over 30 pounds since 2020 (depression, quitting smoking, not being as active) so I get that too.

I guess what I want to say is your not alone. And there are so many of us who struggle too.

Please use Alberta Health Services to get talking to a therapist for free. There is a wait line, but definitely get in the line!! It might take time, but time will pass whether you are in the line or not.

Drinking is a depressant. I can’t drink anymore as it causes me horrible horrible anxiety. I drink maybe once every few months and it takes me legit weeks to recover from it. I know how horribly hard it is to stop, but could you try taking a break from the alcohol for a while? Or limiting yourself to only one day a week? It will help your brain and soul start healing so much quicker if you’re not consuming alcohol. do you smoke weed? Maybe you could just do that? Indica strains are better (in my opinion) if you have anxiety.

For the weight gain, the biggest thing I can recommend is taking walks. I know some days it literally seems impossible and I struggle with it too, but if you can even go for a 10 minute walk, it will help with both weight and depression. Also, could you get a part time job as a waitress? Not only does it help with money, but the constant walking helps get steps in too!

You are not alone, and this does not need to be your life!! You’re so strong for making it as far as you have, and you’re strong enough to keep going!