Since coming to the Turnbridge Men’s Program, Griffin has worked hard to build a life that’s grounded in hard work, responsibility, and gratitude. The journey was rocky at times, but Griffin has found a new, better way of life.

Originally from New Jersey, Griffin explains how he was always the troublemaker and “something was always kind of off” when he was growing up. “I always felt like I had one foot in and one foot out,” he said. Throughout his childhood, Griffin says he was always a well-liked kid who had a lot of friends, but was missing something.

Griffin’s first substance use was in 7th grade when he began smoking weed and drinking. “It continued all the way through high school and it never seemed like an issue until the end,” Griffin stated. “Toward the end, my drinking got really bad. I was always throwing up and passing out.”

Griffin graduated high school and made his way to the University of Fairfield in Connecticut. Griffin’s drinking escalated quickly in college, and he began to spiral out of control. “It went from drinking socially to not drinking socially, and leaving parties to drink by myself,” he said. “I would leave parties and drink until I was passed out or had my head in a toilet.”

His drinking started to come with consequences. Due to his poor academic performance, resulting from college substance abuse, Griffin was almost kicked out of Fairfield. “I was getting in all sorts of trouble and ruining relationships with my family and friends,” said Griffin.

One morning, everything changed. After friends waking him up in a puddle of his vomit, Griffin made a life changing decision. “I called my dad and told him I needed help and I couldn’t live like this anymore,” said Griffin.

After a 28-day stay in primary treatment center, Griffin decided to come to Turnbridge’s residential drug rehab facility. During his stay, Griffin faced many obstacles but with much support, continued to move forward. “I went through the motions and had my ups and downs,” said Griffin.

“It was a great experience and I am very grateful today,” said Griffin. “Turnbridge helped me get back on my feet and gave me the tools to stay sober,” Griffin said. Griffin made great relationships with both staff and other clients that assisted him in his journey. “I learned how to live a better life and be happy with myself,” said Griffin.

Griffin recently graduated from Turnbridge and moved into a local New Haven home with other Turnbridge alumni. After taking a year off from school, Griffin is back at Fairfield and working towards graduating in the next two semesters. “I can’t explain how grateful I am to be where I am today,” Griffin finished.