JD Dilks is a writer, podcaster, and founder of a non-profit mental health meeting center in Bloomsburg, PA. Today he joins Christine to discuss his experience with mental health and addiction issues, and they begin their conversation with a trigger warning for anyone who may not be prepared to hear stories of suicide, child abuse, and addiction. JD talks about experimenting with drugs and alcohol at the age of 11, then spiralling into alcoholism after a traumatic life event at age 12. He opens up about the shame that often comes with addiction, finding closure after the death of his fiancée, and supporting others who are on the path to sobriety.

JD tells Christine about creating a community of support for LGBTQ+ youth in particular and leaving toxic masculinity behind as a culture, then shares a powerful story about sex trafficking that was featured on his podcast. You’ll also hear why the 12-Step program is so crucial to recovery, which step was the most challenging for JD, why people need to realize they want help on their own, and what you can do if you know someone who’s facing addiction. Today’s conversation highlights the importance of educating ourselves about mental illness and addiction, recognizing the warning signs, and spreading more love through the world as we hold a supportive and welcoming space for those who may be struggling. You can learn more about MJs Progress Not Perfection here.

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Episode Highlights:

• JD Dilks is a writer, podcaster and founder of a non-profit mental health meeting center
• He shares his experience with mental health and addiction issues, as well as his recovery
• Stigma around mental illness and addiction
• JD and his wife opened their mental health facility in May 2021
• They host AA meetings, NA meetings, trauma meetings, LGBTQ+, medical marijuana meetings, tarot meetings and much more
• Importance of meeting in person when going through recovery
• JD began experimenting with drugs and alcohol at age 11 and spiralled into alcoholism after a traumatic event at age 12
• Pressure on men and boys to push down their feelings and not show their emotions
• How his center is building a community of support, especially for young people
• Being open about the shame that often comes with addiction 
• JD’s important dates along his journey to sobriety
• Finding closure after losing his fiancée
• Supporting others through sobriety and accepting that he cannot save everyone
• Time management
• Nicole’s story of sex trafficking as shared on JD’s podcast
• Socially acceptable stereotype of moms drinking wine after a hard day needs to change
• Everyone’s speed bumps are different, but rock bottom is always getting to the point where you know you need to change
• Why the 12-Step program is so crucial to recovery and how it can apply to any issue that makes your life unmanageable
• Step 3 (turning over to a higher power) was the most challenging for JD
• JD’s comedy career 
• According to drugabusestatistics.org, 19.4% of people have used illicit drugs at least once  
• You can check out JD’s podcasts and support MJs Progress Not Perfection