Episode "extras"

Our guest is a former crystal meth user living with HIV, and has been free from all substances for over five years. He chose to remain anonymous for the interview. He achieved his recovery through the 12-Step Programs, specifically the Twelve-Step fellowship of Crystal Meth Anonymous (CMA) and Alcoholics Anonymous.

Our guest explains that people using crystal meth don’t usually seek recovery until things fall apart or they “hit bottom.” He discusses the “psychotic breaks” he experienced that led to his decision to once again seek support in a 12-Step Program.

Pozcast takes a personal look into his life in recovery and learns more about why this peer-to-peer program works for him and so many others. Our guest’s passion and knowledge for the program is apparent. He gives us an overview of the 12-Steps and highlights Step 1 as the step members must be completely committed to:

Step 1: We admitted that we were powerless over crystal meth and our lives had become unmanageable.

Some time is spent exploring the spiritual nature of 12-Step Programs and how the use of the word “God” can be a barrier to many. Our guest emphasizes that it is a spiritual program, not a religious one. In fact, he claims that he could care less if people believe in “God,” but it is necessary to believe in something greater than you.

Our guest does service work at his home group, chairs meetings, provides support to others and calls his sponsor everyday. However, he describes the experience of working with other “addicts” as what keeps him sober more than anything else.

For those who may be interested in learning more about Crystal Meth Anonymous or attending a meeting, please review the CMA worldwide meeting directory page.