Stefan

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Growing up in an Asian society, I was by all means a typical well-groomed Asian child. I was the student leader in school. The filial eldest child. The problem-solving friend you could count on. But behind these facades, I was actively struggling with substance abuse.

I first found out about The Greenhouse through an acquaintance who had already started his recovery journey two years ago. He had wanted to sign himself up for the Lifeline programme. The following year, I finally mustered the courage to enrol myself in their next cycle. It was pretty intimidating to take the first step to seek help but I knew my using habit was evidently affecting my ability to balance life as an undergraduate. 

Being an ambitious young lad, I knew it was time for me to ask for help in coping with my withdrawal cravings, so that my substance abuse would not affect my ability to balance my life as a young working adult. At the same time, I was wary because I was afraid to get into trouble for seeking help. I was afraid to show weakness.

I am quite a socially shy and private person who takes time to warm up to people, and I have to say that till this day, I am very appreciative of how welcoming my friends and mentors at The Greenhouse have been from the first day. They were accepting and sensitive in ensuring I felt comfortable being at the centre without being overwhelmed as I started my recovery journey, learning about coping mechanisms and how to simply ask for help when I am struggling.

I am thankful to The Greenhouse for offering me a safe space to work towards a substance-free me, for showing me that I am not alone in this fight to become a clean and healthy person.

Stefan, 27