Damian Ramirez at Recovery Unplugged. Source: Matthew Wexler

Finding Sobriety as a Gay Man at Recovery Unplugged

Matthew Wexler READ TIME: 1 MIN.

EDGE has partnered with music-based treatment center Recovery Unplugged to share stories of resilience and recovery from the LGBTQ community.

Like many adolescents, Damian Ramirez was first introduced to alcohol and marijuana at a young age. His addiction eventually turned to crystal meth as he struggled to come to terms with his sexuality.

Recovery Unplugged, a music-based drug rehabilitation treatment center with facilities throughout the U.S., helped set Damian on a course for recovery through an innovative model that harnesses the proven power of music.

"Recovery Unplugged has played a big part in me staying clean. From the moment I left, I was contacted by alumni, my therapist and my new community. They celebrate our milestones. The support is long-lasting and continues to this day. A simple 'how's it going?' lets me know that I'm cared for and they want the best for me."

Ramirez shares his story of accepting his sexual orientation, overcoming his addiction, and long-lasting sobriety at Recovery Unplugged:

Are you or someone you love struggling with drugs or alcohol? Recovery Unplugged offers LGBTQ-welcoming substance abuse treatment. Visit www.recoveryunplugged.com or call 855-909-8818.


by Matthew Wexler

Matthew Wexler is EDGE's Senior Editor, Features & Branded Content. More of his writing can be found at www.wexlerwrites.com. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram at @wexlerwrites.

This story is part of our special report: "How Music Medicine Heals". Want to read more? Here's the full list.

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