Stories

At the core of the Unshame California campaign are the thousands of Californians impacted by substance use disorder. They are our parents, siblings, children, friends, coworkers, and neighbors. These are their stories.

May 3, 2024

Julio Wants to Help Others Thrive

Help can come from all sorts of people in our communities.

3 views

Apr 4, 2024

Ken's Journey to Self-Confidence

Ken knew that his relationship to drugs was different than other people's.

1 view

Feb 14, 2024

Tim's Story as a Veteran in Recovery

Tim's a veteran. He's also a hero in his personal life.

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Jan 30, 2024

Danny Talks About How Addiction Can Happen to Anyone

Danny wants to honor Kathy's life and memory.

1 view

Dec 5, 2023

Obinna Teaches Positive Self Talk

Today, Obinna's smile can light up a room.

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Oct 16, 2023

Anthony Redefines Connection

Anthony never felt super comfortable in social situations, but using substances made him feel connected.

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Aug 14, 2023

Hope Helps Kaley on her Recovery Journey

Kaley knows she's not alone and that substance use disorder can affect anyone.

2 views

Jul 25, 2023

Mary's Future is Bright

Mary has big dreams and she is committed to making those dreams a reality.

4 views

Jun 11, 2023

Ken's Family's Support Made the Difference

Ken grew up in a family that believed that substance use disorder (SUD) was a personal weakness. It was viewed as a mark of shame, so it...

1 view

May 23, 2023

Audrey Speaks About Recognizing her Self-Worth

Friendships, feelings—many people find that using substances allows them to feel more comfortable and accepted, but substances affect...

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May 10, 2023

Bryant Talks About the Science of Addiction

Bryant shares how educating himself and those around him has helped reduce the stigma of blame.

1 view

Top stories

Dec 20, 20241 min read

Recovery Journeys

Cameron Is Proud To Be Himself

His favorite part of recovery has been thriving in his own skin and living his values.

Sean Pays It Forward by Supporting Others

Sep 20, 20241 min read

Giving Back

Sean Pays It Forward by Supporting Others

Since deciding to learn more about himself and focus on his recovery, Sean has applied what he’s learned to help others.

Melissa Found Connection in Her Recovery

Sep 11, 20241 min read

Lived Experience

Melissa Found Connection in Her Recovery

When Melissa started pursuing her recovery, she found the community and support she'd been looking for through her relationship with God.

Dr. Christina is Changing her Community Through Education and Compassion

Dr. Christina talks about what she has learned about opioid use disorder (OUD) and medications that can treat OUD.

Bryant Talks About the Science of Addiction

Bryant shares how educating himself and those around him has helped reduce the stigma of blame.

Deanna Shares the Importance of Family

Journeying Toward Hope: Supporting Her Brother's Recovery from Opioid Use Disorder and Overcoming Stigma Together.

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