Natalia's story: from a glass of wine to drugs, AIDS and divorce

Natalia was only 27 years old when shelife began to fall apart. It seemed that everything was fine: husband, work, friends, a cozy apartment in the Moscow region. She liked to "relax" in the evening with a glass of wine. And no one saw a problem in this - untilalcohol did not become her daily companion.

The first warning signs

At first it was on weekends. Then – every evening. Over time, a light intoxication became a necessity to “fall asleep” or “relieve stress.” Her husband asked her to stop, but she said: “You just don’t understand.” Wine was replaced by strong alcohol.

"I thought I had it under control. Then I realized I just couldn't get through the evening without a drink," Natalia recalls.

Breakdown and new "friends"

A couple of years later, Natalia began to disappear with new “acquaintances.” Strange people appearedmoney , night trips, unexpected calls. She tried it for the first timeamphetamine - to "lose weight" and "have fun." This drew her into a new reality.

One day she didn't come home. Then again. Her husband left, taking the child with him.

Bottom

By the age of 33, Natalia was without a family, without a job, with a ruined appearance and an addiction to several substances. She did not take care of herself, often spent the night at random acquaintances. At her next medical examination, she was diagnosed: HIV-positive .

"That was the moment when I realized there was nothing left," she says.

Trying to come back

At 35, Natalia went to a rehabilitation center. It was tough. Several breakdowns, a suicide attempt, but then —remission . Today she is 39. She lives in a rented apartment, works as a consultant in a crisis center and helps others.

Conclusion

Natalia's story is not just one woman's tragedy. It is an example of how an innocent habit can turn into a tragedy. It is a reminder: every glass is a choice. And sometimes that choice costs a lifetime.