My name is Emmanuel, and I’m a 25-year-old graduate from UESD, Somanya. I’m currently living the Accra. Growing up, I was always an excellent student and a bit of a loner. But when I got to university, everything changed.

I was introduced to a new world of freedom and experimentation. At first, it was just about having fun and trying new things. But soon, I found myself drawn to the party scene, and with it, the temptation of drugs.

It started with just a few puffs of weed at parties, but soon, I was smoking every day. I told myself I could handle it, that I was just relaxing and having fun. But deep down, I knew I was lying to myself.

As the semester progressed, I began to experiment with harder drugs – cocaine, ecstasy, and eventually, opioids. I convinced myself that I was just trying new things, that I was still in control.

But the truth was, I was addicted. I couldn’t go a day without getting high. I would skip classes, ignore my friends and family, and spend all my money on drugs.

My grades began to slip, and I lost my scholarship. My parents were worried sick about me, but I pushed them away. I felt like I was living in a nightmare, but I couldn’t wake up.

One day, I woke up in a hospital bed, not knowing how I got there. I had overdosed on opioids and nearly died.

That was my wake-up call. I realised that I needed help, and I couldn’t do it alone. I checked myself into rehab and began the long journey of recovery.

It wasn’t easy. There were times when I wanted to give up, when the cravings were too much to bear. But with the support of my loved ones, my therapists, and my fellow addicts in recovery, I made it through.

Today, I’m proud to say that I’m over a year sober. I’ve rebuilt my relationships with my family and friends, and I’ve started pursuing my passions again.

If you’re struggling with addiction, know that you’re not alone. There’s help available, and there’s hope for recovery. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help.