When Tommie Arnold, from Smith County, Tenn., was prescribed Lortab and Xanax pills for back problems in 2006, she didn’t realize it would be the beginning of a 10-year battle with addiction.
Shortly after her prescriptions ran out, Tommie began buying the pills off the streets. She would even steal from her friends and neighbors whenever she had the opportunity to feed her habit. At the height of her addiction, Tommie was taking as many as 30 Xanax a day.
Her dependence was so bad that, at one point, she stopped taking care of her son, which ultimately led to her losing custody of him. She also lost her new home and spent time in jail and a mental health facility before becoming sober in 2014.
Tommie, 36, has now been sober for two years, employed at her current job for nearly two years and has full custody of her son. She encourages anyone else who struggles with addiction to seek the help they need.
“If you’re struggling, reach out. Don’t be embarrassed or ashamed,” she said.
Help protect your loved ones. Learn the signs and symptoms of prescription medicine abuse here.
