Cristy Smyth: Anxiety, Pink Clouds, and Letting Go

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#78: This week we have the pleasure of hearing from Cristy Smyth, a queer person in long term recovery living in The Bay Area. When Cristy started her recovery journey 10 years ago, she didn't think alcohol was the problem. However, looking back on that time in her life, Cristy reflects that she couldn't "draw a sober breathe." After an intervention staged by some coworkers, Cristy went to her first meeting. Although it was not the day she got sober, it was the day the seed was planted. Tune into the episode to learn more about Cristy and her recovery story, including:
- Her first meeting, and the moment she bravely raised her hand and the support that came after.
- The phone list that helped her when she was in a really tough spot, and the reason she picked up the phone and called Mary.
- Cristy's luck finding a roommate on Craigslist, who happened to have 6.5 years of sobriety and showed her how joyous and fulfilling a sober life can be.
- Her struggle with anxiety, and how a big part of her recovery journey has been learning and relearning to let go.
- What life looks like 10 years into this journey of sobriety, and how at times she still feels like a newcomer.
To keep up with Cristy, follow her on Instagram @lilCristy822
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If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health or substance use related crisis, the following resources can provide immediate help.*
If you are experiencing a medical/mental health emergency, dial 911.

• Dial 988 for the SAMSHA Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Available 24/7
• Text “HOME” to 741-741 for the NAMI Crisis Text Line. Available 24/7
• Dial 1-800-622-2255 to connect with a nearby treatment center & community resources through NCADD Hope Line. Available 24/7
• Call/text 1-844-326-5400 for The GSCA CARES Warm Line. Answered by Certified Addiction Recovery Empowerment Specialists with lived experience of SUD. Available any day of the year, 8:30am-11pm EST

*Note: The resources listed are provided for informational purposes only. This list is not comprehensive and does not constitute an endorsement by The Phoenix or the Rise Recover Live Podcast.
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