Mack

firsthand Guide
Jacksonville, FL

Before his life took a dramatic turn, Mack worked for a decade at a local Psychiatric Center in New York, where he was responsible for ensuring the safety and security of patients and staff.

While working, Mack suffered a severe back injury that left him disabled. He endured excruciating pain and underwent major surgery. The physical and emotional trauma took its toll. He struggled to come to terms with the fact that he could no longer work in a job that he was passionate about.

Mack's struggles were compounded by the toxic and unhealthy marriage he was in. His spouse was unfaithful with a friend, and they had a child together. The emotional turmoil he faced as a result of this betrayal, coupled with his physical pain and his loss of identity, left him feeling lost and alone.

As he battled with his own health and wellness, both mentally and physically, Mack turned to substances as a means of escape. He sought solace in pain medication, mixing it with alcohol and marijuana. But it wasn't solely the substances that became his struggle; Mack recognized that his deeper issue lay in his filling an emotional void through unhealthy relationships.

Diagnosed with major depression and struggling with diabetes, Mack realized that there was an urgent need for change.

Determined to turn his life around, Mack made the difficult decision to return to his roots in Alabama, where he began a journey of self-reflection,seeking to rediscover who he truly was. Throughout this process, Mack found unwavering support in his best friend and now-wife, who stood by his side when it felt like everyone else had abandoned him.

Mack discovered Celebrate Recovery, a Christian-based program that became instrumental in his transformation. With a renewed commitment to facing his true self and seeking help, Mack engaged in the program, alongside Christian counseling, to find healing and hope.

With the love of his wife and the guiding principles of his faith, Mack no longer seeks temporary relief in pills, but instead turns to healthy coping mechanisms and a positive mindset. By approaching pain management as he would any prescribed medication, Mack is able to effectively manage his back pain without the desire for escape.

Mack continues to address his mental health from multiple angles, incorporating self-care practices and faith-based support into his daily routine.

Mack's personal experiences have fueled his desire to advocate for mental health awareness and addiction recovery. He actively seeks opportunities to share his story, offering hope and encouragement to others who may be facing similar struggles. Through his advocacy, Mack aims to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction, promoting empathy, understanding, and access to effective treatment options.

Outside of work, Mack is passionate about spending time in nature. While living in New York City for many years, he longed to enjoy the great outdoors. Now that he is back in the South, Mack seizes every chance he gets to indulge in outdoor activities, whether it's fishing, spending time at the shooting range, riding four wheelers, or going on hikes with his friends.

In Mack's journey at firsthand, he is particularly proud of passing the first part of his certification as a Peer Recovery Specialist. He is actively working towards becoming a state-certified Certified Recovery Peer Specialist (CRPS). Mack is excited to earn this certification, as it aligns with his passion for supporting individuals in their recovery journeys.

Mack is a living example that recovery is possible, and that individuals are not defined by their diseases or labels. His commitment to managing his pain, nurturing his mental health, and embracing a faith-centered approach to life has allowed him to reclaim his identity and find purpose in helping others.