Guest writer Chelsea triumphs over addiction and mental health challenges, finding solace in 12-step meetings. Her military service, though prideful, intensifies struggles. Now happily sober, Chelsea uplifts others through a podcast and community, aiming to de-stigmatize mental health and offer support.

Captured on the eve of my last night of drinking, this distorted image serves as a visual testament to the turbulence that once defined my life. Each shattered fragment tells a story of a chapter marked by chaos and uncertainty. However, amidst the fractured echoes, the true beauty emerges — a crystal-clear clarity that unfolded when I embraced sobriety. This image encapsulates the transformative journey towards an 'unwasted' life, guided by anthems of resilience and self-discovery over the past five years.

Guest writer Mandy shares her 1089 sober days journey, starting from an unhealthy relationship with alcohol on graduation night. Contemplating drinking at work in 2020, she found solace in Alan Carr's book, quitting on January 11, 2021. Embracing quit lit, podcasts, and sober Instagram, in-person AA meetings at 18 months brought community but spiritual struggles. Open about her journey, Mandy believes sobriety transformed her life amid challenges like her father's death and divorce, encouraging others that recovery is possible with healthy coping.