What queer identity and addiction have in common is that one can choose to be closeted about both. That was my lived experience until I was 40.
Today, I advocate for openness around sexuality, but transparency around addiction and recovery are equally as important. For me, fear and denial prevented me from living an authentic, healthy, and fulfilled life for decades.
Now, as an openly queer and sober woman, I am experiencing inner peace, growth, happiness, and healing — all outcomes of my journey to self-acceptance and recovery.
I've come to learn that stigma and shame are toxic barriers that must be eradicated so more people can find freedom from isolation and fear.