Some years ago I turned my back on the faith I had been raised in, wanting nothing to do with it. I had been brought up as a Christian Scientist, but for several years I engaged in what I thought were enjoyable social activities, including drinking and smoking, which went against the ethos of the religion. These activities gradually became more regular.

The occasional after-work drink with colleagues turned into drinks four or five nights a week. My financial position went downhill and my once-promising investment portfolio became empty and barren as I sold off assets to pay for my new lifestyle. Although I knew I had a problem, I couldn’t say no when offered a drink.

Eventually I became ill because of these social activities. I was diagnosed with a medical condition that required ongoing medication, but I didn’t have the finances to pay for treatment. Full of self-loathing and guilt, I wondered how I would tell my family. I felt totally alone and demoralized.