**He Fought and Beat Addiction: A Journey of Recovery and Hope**
Nicosia, Cyprus – In a heartfelt public discussion titled “Parental Awareness – Empowering Children,” held at Skali Aglantzias, one man's journey through addiction and recovery was highlighted as a beacon of hope for many. Stelios, a graduate of the residential therapeutic community Agia Skepi, shared his story of overcoming addiction, emphasizing the importance of awareness and support in the fight against substance abuse.
Stelios began his narrative by recounting the challenges he faced from a young age. Born in 1980, he experienced the profound loss of his father in 1985, a tragedy that significantly impacted his life. By the age of 13, he had turned to smoking and drinking, gradually distancing himself from his family and seeking companionship in circles that shared similar struggles. “By the time I was approaching thirty, I could no longer fight my addiction,” he admitted, reflecting on the years of turmoil that led him to seek help.
For nearly three years, Stelios has been part of a rehabilitation program that has transformed his life. “Thank God, for the past three years I’ve been much better. I’ve found myself. I can work and carry on,” he stated, highlighting the positive changes he has experienced since entering the program.
The event, which coincided with the United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, aimed to raise awareness among parents regarding the signs of addiction and the importance of early intervention. Stelios shared his personal experience of how his mother initially struggled to recognize the signs of his addiction. “My mother had no idea about these things. Even if I left traces of use, she didn’t recognize them at first, although there were signs,” he explained. It was only after hearing from friends who had completed the program that she sought help for him.
Throughout his recovery, Stelios learned to confront the emotions he had masked with substance use. He described the difficulties he faced in expressing his feelings and maintaining communication with his family. “Through the addiction, I was masking emotions I couldn’t deal with as a person,” he said. The therapeutic environment at Agia Skepi provided him with the necessary skills to navigate these challenges. “I’ve learned to express myself and talk about my problems,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of communication in his recovery process.
Stelios’s journey did not end with his rehabilitation; he has since pursued further education in Social Work and now works as a social worker at Agia Skepi, helping others who face similar battles. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for recovery and the critical role of support systems in overcoming addiction.
The discussion was attended by a significant number of parents and led by Tina Pavlou, the clinical director of Agia Skepi. The event aimed to empower parents with knowledge and resources to recognize and address potential substance abuse issues in their children early on.
As Cyprus grapples with rising cannabis use and the need for effective drug rehabilitation programs, Stelios’s story is a testament to the resilience of individuals in recovery and the importance of community support. The launch of new prison drug rehabilitation programs is anticipated as part of a broader effort to combat drug abuse in the region.
In conclusion, Stelios’s journey from addiction to recovery exemplifies the challenges many face and the hope that exists for those willing to seek help. His message resonates with the community, encouraging awareness, understanding, and proactive measures in addressing the ongoing issues surrounding drug abuse.