From Civil War to Self-War: Raph's Recovery Story

In this deeply moving episode of Addicted to Recovery, titled From Civil War to Self-War: Raph's Recovery Story, Raph shares the powerful and unfiltered story of his life—from a childhood marked by abuse and trauma to the grip of addiction and the eventual road to healing. Growing up in Sierra Leone during a brutal civil war, Raph witnessed and experienced extreme hardship that left lasting emotional scars. Upon returning to the UK, he found himself struggling with the familiar environment that reignited past pain and unresolved trauma. With no healthy outlet for coping, he turned to substance use, which quickly spiraled into addiction and drug dealing.

Raph’s journey illustrates how deeply family dynamics, childhood experiences, and environmental triggers can shape a person’s path. What started as a way to numb the pain soon became a dangerous lifestyle with serious consequences. His story serves as a reminder that addiction doesn’t discriminate and can escalate faster than expected. It was only after hitting rock bottom—facing the full weight of his decisions and their consequences—that Raph found the strength to begin again.

Recovery, as Raph explains, is not a one-time event but a continuous, evolving process. He credits his transformation to the unwavering support of a recovery community, the commitment to personal growth, and the powerful sense of purpose he discovered through serving others. Today, Raph not only lives free from addiction but also helps others who are walking the same path he once did. His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the healing power of connection, compassion, and change.

Throughout the episode, Raph’s raw honesty is captured in unforgettable sound bites such as, “I was getting beats every night,” “I was eating out of dustbins,” and “I promised my nan I'm not gonna smoke no more.” His words resonate deeply, painting a vivid picture of suffering, survival, and ultimately, redemption.