Recovery memoirs to inspire you

Everyone could use inspiration to help them reach their goals or simply get through their day-to-day life, whether it’s in the form of a motivational podcast or a pep talk from a close friend. If you’re struggling with addiction or just entering recovery, you may be searching for a light at the end of the tunnel—a voice that can assure you “I did it, so you can do it, too.”

Fortunately, there are countless memoirs about addiction and recovery out there written by everyday people as well as celebrities. By being vulnerable and sharing their stories, these writers are able to help the countless Americans out there today who are feeling lonely or in pain but don’t know who to turn to. Below is a list of some popular and recent recovery memoirs we’ve compiled if you’re looking to be inspired. Remember that there is no shame in asking for help—countless people have been in your position before and anyone can develop an addiction.

Wishful Drinking – Carrie Fisher

The late actress has always been refreshingly open about her struggles with addiction, manic depression, and growing up in the spotlight. In her memoir, Fisher approaches her journey to sobriety with the self-deprecation and witty humor she’s been known for her entire life. Though not many of us can relate to being born into Hollywood royalty, many people will be able to understand her history of drug abuse.

Beautiful Boy – David Sheff

You may recognize this title, as David Sheff’s moving memoir about his son’s crystal meth addiction has been turned into a movie starring Steve Carell and Timothee Chalamet. Written from the father’s perspective, the memoir will resonate with individuals who deeply care for their struggling loved ones and will do whatever it takes to help them heal.

Open Book – Jessica Simpson

Popstar Jessica Simpson peels back the curtain of her glamorous life to reveal that she’d been struggling with alcoholism and drug abuse for years, even after having children and raising a family, showing that functioning addicts need help, too. For the first time, the celebrity also reveals that she was sexually abused as a child and that she was using alcohol and pills as an unhealthy coping mechanism. “I didn’t feel comfortable talking about myself in a way that wasn’t honest,” she said about her openness in the book. “I’m a horrible liar.”

The Recovering – Leslie Jamison

One writer shares how she developed alcoholism without intending to, like so many other people. After beginning to drink daily to ease her shyness and cope with her stress, she gradually progressed to hitting rock bottom before seeking treatment through meetings and a 12-step AA program. Jamison’s memoir is a helpful reminder that there is no one type of addict—anyone can develop an addiction.

The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober: Discovering a Happy, Healthy, Wealthy Alcohol-Free Life – Catherine Gray

British writer Catherine Gray delves into all the ways her life improved after she became sober, from improving her family relationships, achieving better skin, and having more energy to do the things she loves. This is an engaging memoir that can help individuals see what their future could look like if they commit to sobriety.

You Don’t Have To Do It Alone

Mount Sinai Wellness Center knows how isolating it can be to struggle with an alcohol or drug addiction. You may be feeling helpless, ashamed, guilty, or a combination of all three, which can make asking for help seem impossible. But all it takes is just one phone call to get in touch with a professional and caring team who wants to help you on the path to recovery. Getting sober alone can be challenging when you don’t have the tools you need to deal with temptations and triggers. At our facility in Atlanta, we develop individualized treatment plans that treat all parts of a person so they can readjust to daily life seamlessly. Recovery isn’t easy for anyone, but we can offer the support you need to approach it head-on with confidence.