I have 31yrs sobriety in AA and have been in many CPTSD recovery programs. My trauma was particularly severe, I don't tell my story in AA because of the impact on others, but I was able to leave the mental health system after 6yrs and steadily recover and stay sober to today. A month ago, I finally was able to get off my psyche meds, a dream I have had my whole sobriety. I am doing the NARP program, and working with a therapist who follows Pete Walker's CPTSD book. My emotions are no longer repressed, and I am able to work through them. It is brutal and difficult to even begin each session without running to distractions. I have a 10yr old son who is my joy and I have many hobbies like hiking mountains that fill me with happiness. My dream is to hold my son in love and safety for hours at a time. I may never get there, but that is my goal.