Amber grew up in a family affected by substance use disorder and faced several challenges from an early age. After experiencing abuse as a child, Amber struggled with her mental health and began to use drugs throughout her teenage years. Her substance use resulted in psychiatric hospitalizations, legal trouble, and years of instability. At 18, she was pregnant with twins but she eventually lost of custody of her children after a DUI.

This was a turning point for Amber and she decided to attend Alpharus Health’s residential treatment program. She started to build her self-esteem again and began building a healthier life one day at a time. Today, she is over three years sober, has her children back in her life, and works at the same treatment center where her recovery began. As a Peer Recovery Support Specialist at Alpharus Health, Amber draws on her experiences to help others find hope, healing, and a path forward in recovery. Take a moment to watch Amber’s story below.