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The Express Gazette
Saturday, October 3, 2026

From Despair to Sobriety: A Woman's Battle with Alcohol Addiction

After years of failed attempts at recovery, one woman found lasting sobriety through unconventional means, now dedicating her life to helping others.

US Politics • 2 hours ago
From Despair to Sobriety: A Woman's Battle with Alcohol Addiction

Susan Laurie's struggle with alcohol addiction reached a critical point where she believed she would die. Her son had left home, rehabilitation efforts had failed, and Alcoholics Anonymous proved insufficient. In a moment of sheer desperation, she sent a final email, a plea for help that would ultimately alter her path.

Laurie described the progression of her alcoholism as "stealth-like." Initially, alcohol made her feel more outgoing and confident, a sensation she embraced, particularly as it was woven into the social fabric of her career in pharmaceutical sales during the 1990s and early 2000s. This normalization of drinking gradually escalated, impacting her personal life. Friends began to notice inconsistencies in her behavior, and what might have once been alarming became a part of her daily routine.

With all conventional methods failing, Laurie turned to hypnotherapy. This unconventional approach marked a turning point in her journey toward sobriety. The therapy provided her with the tools and mindset necessary to break free from the cycle of addiction.

When AA and rehab failed, Susan turned to hypnotherapy

Now, 11 years sober, Laurie is dedicated to assisting other women struggling with alcohol addiction. Her personal experience has fueled a passion for helping those facing similar battles, offering them a beacon of hope and a pathway to recovery.

Susan is now 11 years sober and helps other women who are struggling with alcohol

Susan Laurie describes the progression of her alcoholism as 'stealth-like'

Friends began telling her they didn't know which Susan would turn up when they went out, while at home, behaviour that would once have been alarming slowly became part of everyday life


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