Anouk, 41

A mother without the mask

Then

Anouk had three kids, a busy job and a glass of wine to unwind. That glass became a bottle. She hid bottles in the laundry basket and the garage. At school events she was the cheerful mom. At home she was tired, short-tempered and afraid someone would notice.

The turning point

Her twelve-year-old daughter found a bottle in the garage and asked quietly: mom, are you sick? Anouk couldn't lie to those eyes. She said: yes, a little, and I'm going to get help. That week she booked an intake appointment.

Now

Anouk has been alcohol-free for two and a half years. She has no more bottles to hide and no secrets. Her daughter says she's a more fun mom now. Anouk says: I thought I needed the mask. Without it I'm a better mother.

“Your children see more than you think. Being honest was the beginning.”

The people in these stories are fictional. Their experiences are based on what many people in recovery go through.

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