From Pain to Purpose: Ellen Sutherland’s Story of Addiction, ADHD, and Long-Term Recovery

Send us a text This one is personal. Ellen Sutherland is a recently retired social worker with 37 years of continuous recovery. Along with long-term recovery, we share the common experience of having ADHD. We talk about what alcohol and cocaine “solved” at first, how shame kept both of us stuck for years, and the unexpected freedom that came with getting honest, finding community, and finally discovering that elusive pause. Ellen shares:Growing up fast in a big, high-achieving family—and feeling like “the nothing” kidWhy substances worked…until they didn’t, and how cocaine sped everything upGetting sober while working in schools (and the dissonance of sending kids to 12-step while partying on weekends)The 12-step tools that still anchor her: honesty, openness, willingness—and pausing when agitated or doubtfulADHD late diagnosis, the relief of language, and why medication became an act of kindnessDivorce, codependency, single parenting in recovery, and rebuilding a life that fitsSponsoring women and the joy of giving "it" awayCaring for a sister with autism and ADHD—and advocating until she could truly thrive If you’re navigating ADHD, addiction, or both—or you love someone who is—this conversation is a reminder: you don’t have to do it alone, and there’s nothing to be ashamed of. Community, tools, and hope exist. One day at a time is still a beautiful way to live. Resources mentionedAlcoholics Anonymous (meetings everywhere; free)ADDitude (A.D.D.itude) magazine & newsletter for ADHD education and communityLocal therapy/support groups for ADHD and substance use (check your area) If this episode resonates Share it with someone who needs to hear it. Leave a quick rating/review so others can find The Fully Mindful. And if you’re curious about mindfulness, breathwork, or somatic coaching with me, you can always reach me—links in the show notes. Thanks for listening—and for being human with us. Join the Fully Mindful Community: ✨ Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it helps others find the show! ✨ Stay Connected: Follow @the_fully_mindful on Instagram for mindfulness tips, breathwork insights, and more! ✨ Free Breathwork Sessions: Email me at info@thefully.mindful.com to get signed up for your first session for free of my monthly Unwind Your Mind session.