When a parent struggles with alcoholism or addiction to prescription drugs, it creates deeply challenging circumstances for the entire family. Whether they depend on alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, or other substances, their addiction can severely impact their health, relationships, and overall well-being. If you suspect your parent is battling substance use disorder, taking action is crucial—not only for their sake but for your entire family’s welfare.
Understanding the Warning Signs of Substance Abuse
Recognizing the indicators of substance use disorder is essential before addressing the problem. Parents struggling with alcoholism or prescription drug addiction often display characteristic behaviors such as increased secrecy about their drinking or medication use and unpredictable mood swings. You might notice them neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or in social settings, alongside noticeable changes in their appearance or hygiene.
Physical symptoms frequently include slurred speech, excessive sleeping, and concerning memory lapses or blackouts. When confronted about their drinking or drug use, they typically respond with denial or become defensive. Recognizing these patterns allows you to approach the situation with greater empathy and understanding.
Evaluating Whether You Should Approach Your Parent Directly
Before initiating a conversation about addiction with your parent, carefully consider whether you’re the most appropriate person to have this discussion. Several important factors should influence your decision.
Consider whether having this conversation is age-appropriate for you. If you’re a minor or feel uncertain about tackling such a serious issue alone, seeking guidance from a trusted adult or professional may be preferable. Honestly assess your emotional readiness, as addressing alcoholism and addiction requires significant emotional stability.
Evaluate whether your parent will likely be receptive to your concerns. If they have previously dismissed your worries, someone with more authority—such as a doctor, therapist, or close family friend—might be better positioned to have this conversation. Most importantly, determine whether their substance use creates danger for you. If their addiction or alcoholism has led to abuse, reaching out to a trusted adult, counselor, or support organization may be safer than direct confrontation.
In cases where your parent strongly resists change, a structured intervention led by professionals might become necessary. When direct communication doesn’t seem optimal, connecting with another trusted family member, school counselor, therapist, or support group can provide alternative approaches to getting them the help they need.
Compassionate Approaches to Discussing Substance Use
If you determine that you’re the right person to initiate this conversation, approaching your parent about their alcoholism and addiction requires careful planning and sensitivity. Selecting the right moment is crucial—choose a time when they’re sober and emotionally calm.
Use compassionate language that avoids blame or accusations. Rather than stating “You have a problem,” try expressing your concern with phrases like “I’m really worried and want to help you.” Clearly articulate how their substance use affects you and other family members, while reminding them of positive experiences during their sober periods.
Offer genuine support without imposing ultimatums, letting them know you’re there to help while maintaining healthy boundaries for yourself. Prepare yourself for potential resistance, as they may deny or minimize their addiction. Sometimes setting smaller initial goals works better. Maintain patience and be prepared to revisit the conversation when necessary.
Professional Treatment Options for Substance Use Disorders
Professional intervention is often essential when parents struggle with alcoholism or prescription drug addiction. The appropriate treatment approach depends on their addiction severity and any co-occurring mental health conditions. Most successful recoveries combine multiple treatment modalities in a process that may extend over months or years.
Inpatient or residential rehab provides structured, round-the-clock care in a supportive environment, ideal for those needing to escape daily triggers and focus entirely on recovery. Research shows that transitioning directly from residential treatment to an outpatient facility produces some of the highest addiction recovery success rates.
Comprehensive Outpatient Treatment
Many individuals benefit from attending outpatient programs immediately after completing detox or residential treatment. Quality outpatient rehabilitation programs allow people to receive therapy and support while maintaining family and work responsibilities. Northstar Recovery Center assists clients with Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML) applications, short-term disability applications, and provides a robust support system to remove barriers to treatment.
Individual and family therapy help address addiction’s underlying causes while improving family dynamics. Treatment commonly incorporates evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed approaches.
Community Support Networks
Recovery communities like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), or SMART Recovery provide essential peer support networks during off-treatment hours. Quality outpatient treatment centers typically help clients establish connections with these additional support resources to strengthen their foundations in recovery.
Self-Care Strategies When Supporting a Parent in Recovery
Loving someone battling alcoholism and addiction presents significant challenges. Prioritizing your well-being while supporting your parent through recovery is essential for both of you.
Establish clear boundaries regarding their behavior and your level of involvement to protect your emotional and mental health. Consider working with a therapist who can help you process complex emotions and develop effective coping mechanisms. Support groups specifically designed for families affected by addiction, such as Al-Anon and Nar-Anon, offer invaluable understanding and resources.
Remember to maintain focus on your own life rather than allowing their addiction to become all-consuming. Continue engaging in hobbies, relationships, and activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.
Finding Professional Support for Parental Addiction
If you need guidance helping a parent with alcoholism or prescription drug addiction, comprehensive treatment options are available through specialized centers like Northstar Recovery Center in Southborough and West Springfield, Massachusetts. From medical detoxification to flexible outpatient programs, experienced addiction specialists can support individuals and families throughout the recovery journey.
Quality treatment centers distinguish themselves by offering personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs, experienced medical professionals specializing in addiction medicine, flexible programming for those balancing treatment with daily responsibilities, and family-focused approaches that address addiction’s impact on loved ones.
Taking the First Step Toward Healing
If your parent struggles with alcohol or prescription drug addiction, seeking help promptly can make all the difference. Research and contact a dedicated treatment provider in your area to learn about detoxification programs, rehabilitation services, and family therapy options that could benefit your situation.
By addressing addiction with compassion and accessing professional support, you can help your parent while safeguarding your own emotional and mental well-being. Remember that recovery is possible, and you don’t need to navigate this challenging journey alone.
Pick up the phone and call 888-339-5756 today to get your parent the help they need, and the relief you deserve. You may also email admissions@northstarrecoverycenter.com.
Every day, individuals walk through our doors seeking a way out of the darkness of substance abuse, and they leave with renewed hope, purpose, and freedom. In this blog, we shine a light on real addiction recovery success stories from our alumni and clients who have broken free from the grip of drug and alcohol addiction.
These powerful video testimonials offer raw, honest, and uplifting insights into what it’s like to overcome addiction with the help of compassionate care. Watch these uplifting personal journeys to reveal what’s possible when you take the first step toward recovery, and keep an eye on this post as it will be updated with new recovery success stories regularly!
If you or a loved one need help getting on the path to a lasting recovery, give us a call and reclaim your life today: 888-339-5756
“There is a Way Through” — Ed
Ed struggled with multiple relapses in early recovery, but he was always welcomed back to Northstar with open arms. With time, effort, and engagement, he was able to expand his toolkit, mend personal relationships, and find happiness in recovery.
“A Second Chance at Life.” — Annie
Having gone through detoxes in the past and being unable to stay sober on her own, something within Annie told her to try something different. Hear how her aftercare experience at Northstar Recovery Center gave her the tools, structure, and support needed for lasting recovery.
As a young person in recovery, Amanda couldn’t picture a future without alcohol. Throughout her time at Northstar she learned the tools and mindset to lead a happy and fulfilling life in lasting sobriety.
“Life Can Be Really Good.” — John
Learn how John saw himself change alongside his peers at Northstar Recovery Center, how he’s maintained his relationships and built a sober network, and the work he does to keep his recovery a success story.
“This Place Saved My Life.” — Konstantin
Konstantin shares the impact the Northstar team has had on his success recovery, and how he’s been able to remain strong in his sobriety by helping others.
“Coming to Northstar Changed My Life.” — Alex
By understanding the root causes of his addiction and mental health with the Northstar team, Alex has found lasting recovery and now helps others in early sobriety! Watch his inspirational recovery success story below:
“I Felt Like Everything Was Going to Be Okay.” — Cameron
In Cameron’s recovery success story, he speaks to how Northstar has helped him navigate his early recovery, overcoming a relapse to return stronger than ever.
“I Never Wanted to Leave.” — George
Learn about George’s experience in early recovery at Northstar Recovery Center, the relationships he’s built and repaired, and his new outlook on life.
As you’ve seen through these inspiring addiction recovery success stories, lasting freedom from substance abuse is possible — and it starts with reaching out for help. At Northstar Recovery Center, we are committed to walking beside you every step of the way, offering personalized care, compassion, and evidence-based treatment to help you or your loved one reclaim a life of purpose and joy.
If you’re ready to begin your own recovery journey — or if you want to learn more about how we’ve helped others overcome drug addiction and alcohol use disorder — contact Northstar Recovery Center today. Let these powerful testimonials remind you that you are not alone, and that a brighter, healthier future is within reach.
A diagnosis of End-Stage Liver Disease (ESLD) is one of the most devastating moments in a person’s life. It marks the point at which the liver can no longer function properly, and without intervention, survival becomes uncertain. But while this diagnosis is serious, it does not mean all hope is lost. Liver transplantation offers a path forward, and understanding the process can help patients and their loved ones navigate this difficult journey with courage and determination.
How Doctors Diagnose End-Stage Liver Disease
The diagnosis of ESLD is based on a combination of medical history, physical examinations, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Doctors look for clear signs that the liver has sustained irreversible damage. Blood tests, known as liver function tests (LFTs), often reveal elevated bilirubin levels, low albumin, and increased liver enzymes. A crucial measure, the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score, helps assess the severity of liver failure and determines a patient’s priority for transplantation.
As liver function declines, symptoms of decompensation appear. Patients may develop jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes due to an excess of bilirubin. Ascites, a buildup of fluid in the abdomen, can cause significant discomfort and can lead to infections. Hepatic encephalopathy, a condition where toxins accumulate in the brain, results in confusion, personality changes, and difficulty concentrating. Additionally, internal bleeding from varices—enlarged blood vessels in the esophagus or stomach—can be life-threatening. Imaging tests such as ultrasounds, MRIs, or even liver biopsies may be used to confirm cirrhosis and assess the extent of damage.
The Emotional Toll of an ESLD Diagnosis
Being told that your liver is failing is an overwhelming experience. Fear and uncertainty often take hold, not only for the patient but also for their loved ones. For those whose liver failure is alcohol-related, emotions can be further complicated by guilt and regret. It is not uncommon for patients to feel hopeless, and some may even consider returning to drinking, believing that their fate is already decided. However, it is crucial to resist this temptation. Drinking alcohol after an ESLD diagnosis can immediately disqualify a patient from receiving a transplant.
The emotional burden of ESLD can be alleviated through counseling, liver transplant support groups, and open conversations with doctors and transplant coordinators. Many people who receive a liver transplant go on to live full and meaningful lives, making it vital to maintain hope and focus on the steps needed to qualify for this life-saving procedure.
Liver Transplant: The Only Viable Treatment
Unlike kidney disease, where dialysis can serve as a temporary solution, there is no equivalent treatment for liver failure. Once the liver reaches a critical state, the only cure is a transplant. Without one, the disease will continue to progress, leading to severe complications such as multi-organ failure and eventual death. For this reason, early evaluation for transplantation is essential for those diagnosed with ESLD.
The Process of Getting on the Transplant List
Being placed on the transplant list is not automatic; patients must undergo an extensive evaluation at a transplant center. This process includes medical tests to ensure the individual is healthy enough for surgery, as well as psychological assessments to determine emotional and mental readiness. Transplant teams also assess a patient’s ability to adhere to lifelong post-transplant care, including taking immunosuppressant medications and making necessary lifestyle changes.
For individuals with alcohol-related liver disease, maintaining documented sobriety is often a requirement. Many transplant centers enforce a minimum period of six months without alcohol before considering a patient for transplantation. Patients must also demonstrate that they have a strong support system in place, as recovery from a liver transplant requires caregivers who can assist during the postoperative period. Once a patient is deemed eligible, they are added to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) transplant list, where priority is determined based on their MELD score—the higher the score, the more urgent their need.
How Sobriety and Addiction Treatment Can Improve Candidacy
For patients with alcohol-related ESLD, entering an alcohol treatment program can significantly improve their chances of qualifying for a transplant. Rehabilitation programs, support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), and therapy sessions demonstrate a commitment to long-term sobriety, which is essential for ensuring that a transplanted liver remains healthy. Some transplant centers require active participation in such programs as a condition for listing a patient. By addressing addiction and maintaining sobriety, patients not only increase their eligibility for transplantation but also set the foundation for a healthier future post-surgery.
The Odds of Receiving a Liver Transplant & Life Expectancy with ESLD
The waiting time for a liver transplant varies widely. Some patients receive an organ within months, while others wait for years, depending on their MELD score, blood type, body size, and organ availability. Unfortunately, not all patients receive a transplant in time, and some succumb to complications of ESLD before a suitable liver becomes available.
Without a transplant, life expectancy in ESLD depends on the severity of liver failure and how well symptoms can be managed. Some patients can survive for several months or even a few years with medical treatment, while others deteriorate rapidly. Receiving a transplant dramatically improves survival rates, with many recipients going on to live decades post-surgery.
The Journey to Transplantation: Medical Treatments Leading Up to Surgery
While waiting for a transplant, patients undergo various medical treatments to manage their symptoms and maintain the best possible health. Medications such as diuretics help reduce fluid buildup from ascites, while lactulose helps prevent toxin accumulation in the brain, reducing the risk of hepatic encephalopathy. Patients at risk for internal bleeding may receive beta-blockers or undergo endoscopic procedures to manage varices. Regular medical checkups, proper nutrition, and staying as active as possible all contribute to better overall health, increasing the likelihood of a successful transplant when the time comes.
What Happens on Liver Transplant Surgery Day?
When a liver becomes available, the patient is called to the hospital immediately. Pre-operative preparation includes additional medical tests, IV fluid administration, and discussions with the surgical team. Once under anesthesia, the diseased liver is carefully removed, and the donor liver is implanted. Surgeons connect the new liver’s blood vessels and bile ducts, ensuring that it functions properly in its new home. The procedure typically lasts several hours, followed by intensive care monitoring to ensure the body does not reject the organ.
A New Beginning
A liver transplant — much like recovery from alcoholism — offers not just survival, but a second chance at life. The journey is long and often difficult, but for those who remain committed to their health and sobriety, the rewards are immeasurable. With the right medical care, emotional support, and personal determination, individuals who once faced a dire diagnosis can go on to live full, meaningful lives beyond ESLD.
Keep an eye out for Part 3 of our Liver Transplantation Series, in which we’ll discuss what life entails post surgery and beyond.If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or substance addiction, hope and healing are available. Get help today by calling (888) 339-5756 or emailing admissions@northstarrecoverycenter.com.
Recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) is a deeply personal and transformative journey. While clinical treatments such as therapy, support groups, and medical interventions play a critical role, philosophical and spiritual frameworks can also offer invaluable guidance. One such framework is The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, these agreements provide a simple yet profound code of conduct that can support individuals in recovery by promoting self-awareness, emotional healing, and a greater sense of purpose.
1. Be Impeccable with Your Word
The first agreement emphasizes the power of language and truth. To be impeccable with your word means to speak with integrity, say only what you mean, and avoid using words to harm yourself or others.
For those in recovery, this agreement is particularly powerful because addiction often thrives in deception—both self-deception and dishonesty with others. People struggling with SUD may lie about their substance use, downplay its consequences, or speak negatively about themselves in ways that reinforce shame and guilt.
Practicing this agreement in recovery means:
Speaking honestly with oneself and others about one’s struggles and progress.
Reframing negative self-talk into compassionate, constructive dialogue.
Using words to foster connection, accountability, and healing.
By committing to truthfulness and integrity, individuals in recovery can rebuild trust in themselves and their relationships, fostering a foundation for lasting sobriety.
2. Don’t Take Anything Personally
This agreement reminds us that what others say and do is often more about them than about us. Taking things personally can lead to resentment, emotional distress, and relapse triggers.
In recovery, it’s easy to feel judged—whether by family members, friends, or even by societal stigma surrounding addiction. Internalizing criticism or negative perceptions can erode self-esteem and motivation. On the other hand, taking things personally can also amplify emotional reactions, making it harder to practice patience and forgiveness.
Applying this agreement in recovery means:
Recognizing that others’ opinions and actions are shaped by their own experiences and beliefs.
Detaching from the need for external validation or approval.
Cultivating self-compassion and focusing on one’s personal growth rather than the judgments of others.
Making assumptions often leads to misunderstandings, conflicts, and unnecessary suffering. Many individuals struggling with addiction assume they know how others perceive them, that they are beyond help, or that they will inevitably relapse.
Assumptions can be especially dangerous in recovery, as they fuel self-doubt, insecurity, and isolation. For example, someone might assume that they are unwelcome in a support group, that loved ones will never forgive them, or that they cannot succeed in long-term sobriety.
To integrate this agreement into recovery, individuals can:
Ask questions and seek clarity instead of assuming the worst.
Challenge negative assumptions by reflecting on the facts rather than emotional distortions.
By avoiding assumptions, those in recovery can create stronger, healthier relationships and develop a more balanced and realistic view of themselves and their journey.
4. Always Do Your Best
The final agreement recognizes that our “best” is not a fixed standard—it changes depending on our circumstances, energy levels, and personal growth. Doing one’s best does not mean perfection; rather, it means showing up fully and putting forth sincere effort, even when progress feels slow.
For individuals recovering from substance use disorder, this agreement is a game-changer. Many people in recovery struggle with guilt over past mistakes or feel overwhelmed by the long road ahead. However, by focusing on doing their best in the present moment, they can relieve the pressure of perfectionism and avoid discouragement.
Applying this agreement in recovery includes:
Practicing self-forgiveness and acknowledging progress, no matter how small.
Focusing on daily efforts rather than fixating on distant goals.
Understanding that setbacks do not equate to failure—what matters is the continued commitment to growth.
When individuals commit to doing their best, they cultivate self-respect, perseverance, and a sense of purpose, all of which are essential for sustained recovery.
Integrating The Four Agreements into Recovery
The beauty of The Four Agreements is that they provide a flexible and practical philosophy that can complement various recovery approaches, from 12-step programs to holistic therapies. Incorporating these agreements into daily life can help individuals navigate the challenges of sobriety with greater ease and self-awareness.
To make these principles more actionable in recovery, consider:
Journaling about each agreement and how it applies to personal experiences.
Discussing the agreements with a sponsor, therapist, or support group.
Practicing mindfulness to become more aware of thoughts, language, and assumptions.
Northstar Recovery Center – A Soft Place to Land
At Northstar Recovery Center, we believe that lifelong sobriety is built on a strong foundation of personal growth, self-awareness, and compassion — values that align beautifully with The Four Agreements. Whether you’re just beginning your recovery journey or seeking to deepen your commitment to a sober life, our caring and experienced team is here to walk beside you every step of the way. We offer a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you can explore powerful tools like these agreements and learn to apply them in your day-to-day, helping you break free from substance use disorder and embrace a healthier, more fulfilling future.
If you’re ready to take that first courageous step toward sobriety, we are here to help you build a toolkit for lasting recovery. You don’t have to do this alone — we’ll meet you where you are and provide personalized care, education, and community connection to support your unique path. Reach out to us today. Call 888-339-5756 to speak with someone on our admissions team and get the help you need.
Starting your journey to recovery from alcohol or substance abuse is a brave and life-changing decision. If you’ve never sought help before, the process might feel overwhelming. You may not know what to expect, what steps to take, or what challenges lie ahead. But you’re not alone—millions of people have walked this path, found healing, and are living happy and fulfilling lives in sobriety. Understanding what the recovery process looks like from the beginning can help ease some of the anxiety and uncertainty.
Detox: The First Step to Healing
The first stage in your journey to recovery is detoxification. This is where your body clears itself of alcohol or drugs. Depending on the substance, length of use, and your physical health, withdrawal symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe medical complications. Detox is best done in a medically supervised setting where professionals can monitor symptoms and provide medications or treatments to make the process safer and more comfortable.
During detox, you may experience symptoms such as nausea, sweating, anxiety, restlessness, or cravings. For substances like alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids, withdrawal can be more intense and require medical intervention. The detox process typically lasts from a few days to a week, but the emotional and psychological impact may persist beyond that timeframe. Detox alone is not treatment—it is the first step in preparing your mind and body for long-term recovery.
CSS (Clinical Stabilization Services): Finding Your Foundation
After detox, many people transition to a Clinical Stabilization Service (CSS), or part two of the journey to recovery. This step helps stabilize you both physically and emotionally while providing a structured environment to begin the real work of recovery. In CSS, you’ll start participating in therapy sessions, learning about addiction, and developing coping strategies.
Unlike detox, which focuses on physical withdrawal, CSS begins addressing the mental and emotional aspects of addiction. You’ll work with counselors, participate in group therapy, and start creating a treatment plan for the next steps in your recovery. The length of stay varies but often lasts one to two weeks. This stage is crucial for building a solid foundation before moving into more intensive therapy.
Day Treatment: Deepening the Work
Once stabilized, the next level in your journey to recovery is Day Treatment, which is an intensive, structured addiction treatment program that provides several hours of therapy each day, five to six days a week, while allowing you to return home or to a sober living environment in the evenings. Insurance companies may refer to this level of care as a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) or an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP).
As you progress, you may step down to a lower level of Day Treatment, which provides more flexibility while maintaining structured support. At this stage, therapy sessions may be held several hours a day, three to five days a week. The focus shifts to integrating recovery into everyday life, allowing you to return to work, school, or family responsibilities while still engaging in therapy and peer support.
Outpatient Therapy: Long-Term Support for Lasting Recovery
The final step in this continuum of care is outpatient therapy. This stage in the journey to recovery is ongoing and can last for months or even years, depending on your needs. Typically, outpatient therapy consists of weekly or biweekly sessions with a therapist who specializes in addiction and mental health.
At this point, you’ll have a stronger foundation in recovery, but ongoing therapy helps reinforce healthy behaviors, manage stress, and address any setbacks. Many people also participate in support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), or SMART Recovery alongside therapy to maintain a sense of community and accountability.
What to Expect Emotionally and Mentally
Recovery is more than just abstaining from substances—it’s a complete transformation of mind, body, and spirit. It’s common to experience a range of emotions throughout this journey. In the beginning, fear, doubt, and frustration may be present. As you progress, you may feel a sense of hope, accomplishment, and renewed purpose. However, setbacks and challenges are a natural part of the process.
Having a support system, whether through treatment professionals, peers in recovery, or loved ones, is crucial. You will learn how to cope with cravings, handle stress in healthy ways, and repair relationships that may have been strained due to substance use.
Final Thoughts: A Lifelong Journey
Your journey to recovery won’t happen overnight. It requires patience, self-compassion, and perseverance. Each stage—from detox to outpatient therapy—serves a purpose in helping you rebuild a healthier, more fulfilling life. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and every step forward, no matter how small, is a victory.
If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use, know that support is available. You don’t have to do this alone, and Northstar Recovery Center is here to help you wherever you are in your recovery journey.
Contact us or give us a call today for the relief you deserve: 888-339-5756
In March we celebrate Women’s History Month. Throughout history, countless women have broken barriers and paved the way for progress, often in spaces where their presence was once overlooked. In the world of recovery, several remarkable women played pivotal roles in shaping the fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous(AA) and expanding its reach.
This Women’s History Month, it’s worth honoring the influential contributions of trailblazers including Florence R., the first woman to ever join AA and bravely share her story; Marty Mann, the first woman to achieve long-term sobriety in AA and a passionate advocate for addiction education; Henrietta Sieberling, whose quiet yet powerful role connected the co-founders of AA; and Sister Ignatia, a compassionate caregiver who helped countless alcoholics find their path to recovery. Their courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication not only strengthened the foundation of AA, but also inspired women like me to have hope and seek healing and community. As a woman in recovery, I feel it is important for us to honor these women’s stories and highlight how small actions can create waves of change.
Florence eventually started drinking again and was not seen until Fitz M. found her in the morgue. Florence died by suicide. Despite her tragic end, she helped pave the way for all of the women in AA and has inspired hundreds of thousands with her story “A Feminine Victory.” An interesting piece of her story is that Alcoholics Anonymous was initially going to be called “One Hundred Men”, but due to Florence’s membership, the name was rejected.
“I know that my victory is none of my human doing. I know that I must keep myself worthy of Divine help. And the glorious thing is this: I am free, I am happy, and perhaps I am going to have the blessed opportunity of passing it on.” — Florence R., A Feminine Victory (p. 225, Alcoholics Anonymous, 1st Edition)
Marty Mann
Next up we have Marty Mann, who was born in Chicago to an upper-middle-class family. She attended her first meeting in 1939 at the age of 35, and was the first woman to achieve continuous sobriety from the program. Marty had a privileged upbringing and became well-known for her ability to drink excessively (binge drinking), something we understand today as a potential warning sign for alcoholism.
Ultimately, Marty’s drinking caught up with her personal and professional success, and she attempted suicide at least one known time. While seeking professional help, Marty’s therapist provided her with a copy of the Big Book and encouraged her to attend a meeting. It was at that meeting that Marty met Bill W., who would become her sponsor. Coming from a wealthy family, Marty was familiar with the stigma surrounding substance use disorders and it became her mission to eliminate the misconception that it is a moral failing or poor decision making.
Marty promoted the disease model of addiction which was vital in our current understanding that addiction actually is a disease. Additionally Marty helped to found Yale School of Alcoholic Studies and the NCADD (National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence). You can find Marty’s story in the 2nd through 4th editions of the Big Book under the title “Women Suffer Too.”
“I have something to contribute to humanity, since I am peculiarly qualified, as a fellow-sufferer, to give aid and comfort to those who have stumbled and fallen over this business of meeting life. I get my greatest thrill of accomplishment from the knowledge that I have played a part in the new happiness achieved by countless others like myself.” — Marty Mann, Women Suffer Too (p. 207, Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th Edition)
Henrietta Sieberling
Henrietta Sieberling was not an alcoholic, however she played a pivotal role in the forming of AA as she initially introduced Bill W. to Dr. Bob (the cofounders of AA). Henrietta was a part of the Christian fellowship group called the Oxford Group, who had meetings across the United States and Europe.
Dr. Bob and his wife had been attending the Akron Oxford Group, where Dr. Bob quietly admitted to Sieberling that he was a “secret drinker” and could not stop. Together, the group prayed. Shortly thereafter, by chance, Bill W. contacted a clergyman at random from a directory in his hotel’s lobby, and the clergyman put him in contact with Henrietta. Several miles away from his home, Bill W had just lost a big business deal and was desperately seeking another alcoholic to help. Henrietta arranged a meeting between Bill W. and Dr. Bob (which Dr. Bob was initially resistant to). The rest is history, and can be found in the Big Book (go read it!).
Working together they formed the tenets that would become the 12 steps. While one miracle already occurred with the meeting of these two men, another would come shortly after when Henrietta chose to be direct and bold with her insistence that the program be based in spirituality and a belief in God. Bill W. and Dr. Bob initially resisted this, thinking alcoholics would be turned off by the mentioning of God. Henrietta replied:
“Well, we’re not out to please the alcoholics. They have been pleasing themselves all these years. We are out to please God. And if you don’t talk about what God does and your faith, and your guidance, then might as well be the Rotary Club or something like that. Because God is your only source of Power.”
Alcoholics Anonymous would not be what it is today without Sister Mary Ignatia, also referred to as the “Angel of Alcoholics Anonymous.” Sister Ignatia was another nonalcoholic who played a crucial role in the creation of AA.
Originally from Ireland, she came to the United States at the age of 6 with her family and entered the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine in 1914. Though she received a degree from the University of Notre Dame and taught music at St. Augustine Academy, her superiors feared her health too frail for a teaching career and placed her at St. Thomas Hospital in Akron, Ohio as registrar (another… coincidence?).
While at St. Thomas Hospital, she was approached by two men (Bill W. and Dr. Bob) who created a “new therapy” for those who wanted to quit drinking. Sister Ignatia provided a space for these men to meet with patients in the hospital, some of whom she had to sneak in due to pushback from other hospital staff. There is evidence that Sister Ignatia started the tradition of giving out medallions; giving newly released patients a Sacred Heart medallion, insisting they return it before taking a drink.
Sister Ignatia received many medals and awards for her tireless work with recovering alcoholics. In 1952 she opened Rosary Hall, a ward dedicated to treating alcoholics at St. Vincent Charity Hospital in Cleveland, OH. There she provided spiritual counseling, group therapy, and medical help for thousands of alcoholics. Without women like Sister Ignatia, AA may have never blossomed into the movement it became. She truly earned her title, the Angel of Alcoholics Anonymous.
“The individual given to alcoholic addiction is frequently a wreck of humanity – broken in body and soul, and heart and unable to help himself. His loved ones suffer, too; there were many broken homes and hearts because of compulsive drinking.” — Sister Ignatia
Walking a Path of Fellowship & Sisterhood
In learning about these women over the years in my own sobriety, they have no doubt influenced and encouraged me to share my story, to inspire and help others. In my experience over the years I have encountered thousands of powerful, influential, and courageous women in recovery. We truly never know how a phone call, a phrase, or a small action will impact others.
I’ve come to understand the unique strength it takes to walk this path. It’s more than just putting down a drink or a drug—it’s about reclaiming your voice, your worth, and finding purpose in this world. This rings especially true as I reflect on such powers of example during Women’s History Month.
Women in recovery face challenges that can feel isolating, but we also discover a sisterhood rooted in resilience, honesty, and compassion. We lean on the stories of those who came before us—women like Florence R., Marty Mann, and so many others—who showed us that recovery is not just possible but powerful. Today, we continue their legacy by standing together, lifting each other up, and proving that sobriety isn’t a sign of weakness but the ultimate expression of strength.
We’re Here to Help Women on their Recovery Journey
As women in recovery, it’s our duty to continue to pave the way and encourage others to follow. Our caring and compassionate team at Northstar Recovery Center provides a safe and welcoming environment for women to gain the tools for lasting happiness in sobriety.
If you or anyone you know is struggling with alcohol or any other substance, please reach out to us today. Contact us online or give us a call at 888-339-5756.
Happy Women’s History Month from the Northstar Team!
