#addictionawareness #addictionrecovery #sobermotivation In this episode of The Sober Fix Podcast, Drew sits down with Patty Blue Hayes — coach, author, and mental health advocate — for a powerful and emotional deep dive into addiction, sobriety, heartbreak, healing, and the lifelong journey of recovery.Patty shares her story openly, from early experiences with alcohol to the dark moments of suicidal ideation, and the courage it took to rebuild her life with gratitude, writing, and self-compassion. Together, Drew and Patty explore how sobriety reshapes identity, relationships, and purpose — and why community support and honest conversations like this can save lives.

If you're on your own sobriety path, in recovery, or supporting someone who is, this episode is filled with insight, hope, and real tools for healing.Episode Takeaways• The importance of mental health advocacy in addiction recovery• How daily gratitude practices can transform your healing• The impact of early exposure to alcohol• Why sobriety becomes a journey of self-discovery• Writing as a therapeutic and empowering outlet• How technology can support people in crisis• Understanding suicidal ideation and why reaching out matters• Overcoming shame, guilt, and regret with self-compassion• The ongoing nature of self-care in long-term sobriety• How community and connection accelerate recoveryChapters00:00 Introduction to Patty Hayes and Her Journey02:51 Life Changes and Moving to Panama05:30 The Impact of Sobriety on Life08:03 Early Experiences with Alcohol10:27 The Journey to Sobriety13:12 The Challenges of Social Drinking16:05 Reflections on Alcohol and Addiction18:52 Navigating Relationships and Alcohol21:29 The Seduction of Alcohol and Its Consequences25:26 Navigating Emotional Pain and Sobriety27:57 The Journey of Heartbreak Healing33:53 Finding Purpose Through Writing42:53 Understanding Suicidal Ideation46:55 Overcoming Shame and Regret in Recovery51:17 Maintaining Long-Term SobrietyFeatured Guest: Patty Blue HayesEmail: patty@pattybluehayes.comBooks:• How to Quit Drinking Alcohol with ChatGPT• Wine, Sex, and Suicide: My Near Death DivorceFollow Patti's work for powerful stories, guidance, and recovery tools.Connect With The Sober FixWebsite: www.thesoberfixpodcast.comEmail: thesoberfixpodcast@gmail.comTikTok: @thesoberfixInstagram: @thesoberfixpodcastIf you’d like to share your story, collaborate, or come on the show — reach out anytime. Your voice could help someone else heal.