Elizabeth, a recovering alcoholic and creator of the stage play REHAB, shared her inspiring journey of overcoming addiction and finding purpose on Newstalk ZB’s The Nutters Club. Now 16 years sober, Elizabeth reflected on her struggles with alcohol addiction, her path to recovery, and her efforts to break the stigma surrounding addiction. ​

Born in Christchurch and raised in East Auckland, Elizabeth began drinking at the age of 15 after her parents’ separation and a school change left her feeling lost and uncomfortable in her own skin. Alcohol provided a sense of relief, but her drinking quickly escalated into an obsession. ​ By her late teens, she was drinking during the day and experiencing blackouts. ​ At university, where drinking was normalised, her addiction worsened, leading to daily drinking and even consuming alcohol before morning lectures. ​

Despite her struggles, Elizabeth managed to complete her Bachelor of Communications degree, but her addiction continued to spiral. By her early twenties, she realised the toll her drinking had taken on her relationships, health, and career. ​ After several failed attempts to quit, including detox diets and recovery meetings, Elizabeth finally sought help at a residential rehab facility. There, she found solace in the therapeutic community model, which provided a safe space for vulnerability and growth. ​The strict rules and group therapy sessions helped her confront her addiction and begin the process of healing.

Elizabeth’s recovery journey wasn’t without challenges. ​ After getting sober, she developed an eating disorder, which she addressed using the tools and principles she learned in rehab. ​ She credits her recovery community for providing the support and encouragement she needed to overcome her struggles. ​

Since achieving sobriety, Elizabeth has accomplished remarkable milestones, including becoming a mother, retraining as a lawyer, and working as a criminal defence attorney. ​ She also created Rehab, a stage play that sheds light on addiction and recovery, aiming to reduce stigma and inspire others to seek help. ​The play, which debuted in 2021, has been performed multiple times and is set for its seventh season at Auckland’s Pumphouse Theater.

Elizabeth’s story demonstrates the power of resilience, community, and the possibility of transformation. ​For those seeking help, she recommends reaching out to local services such as Community Alcohol and Drug Services (CADS), Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), or residential rehab facilities like Higher Ground and the Salvation Army’s Bridge program.

REHAB tickets available here.