Have you ever wondered about the stories of that guy or girl in the mugshots online? Many counties across America publish mugshots of people who have been arrested, often causing additional strife and grief to people recovering from addiction. The “We Do Recover” campaign in Lubbock County, Texas, Mugshots Facebook page turns this stigma on its head and has people in the photos reclaiming their story and sharing it to help others like them. The people in the mugshots are doing much better and want the public to know that it can happen to them, too. 

“We Do Recover” Sets A Tone Of Hope

There are thousands of mug shots on the internet, often with a stigma attached to them.

Many of the people in these photos struggle with addiction, but you can’t know their story from the pictures taken at a police station. Telling these stories may provide the inspiration to change. 

Addiction causes problems in communities and households across America. It’s a significant driver for petty crime. People addicted to drugs like opioids may steal to get their drugs or even engage in prostitution to make ends meet. Addicted people spend the majority of their time seeking and using drugs and often engage in illegal activities to support their substance use. These stories are common and not unique. (In most states, the act of buying and using drugs is considered a crime.) 

The Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) reported that among state prisoners in 2004, 30% of property offenders and 26% of drug offenders committed their crimes to obtain money for drugs.

Quitting drugs usually means quitting a lifestyle full of dangers and uncertainty. People who have been homeless can usually secure services such as treatment or 

Show and Tell Recovery Stories

Lubbock County’s mugshot segment on Facebook now showcases stories called “We Do Recover.” Daniel Woolridge, one of the many people willing to tell their stories, says he wanted to share his story to show how far he’s come. He began using drugs in college and became addicted, and it took him several mugshots before he was able to get sober and get help. 

“I have a really great relationship today with a really bright future with an awesome girl. I have so many amazing friends and family and just, a lot of really cool stuff. That I think, you know, I was looking at my mugshot. I was thinking about, thinking back to who I was then and I was just totally broken and hopeless,” he said.

“Did I need people holding me accountable? Absolutely. Do we need to hold people accountable for their wrongdoing? For sure. But I think without knowing that there’s hope, that’s pointless,” he said. “Because we all have, every person who’s experienced addiction, has an immense amount of shame and guilt for the things they’ve done to keep that addiction going – who they are, the places they’ve been, all that, right. And so, if they can just get a little hope, I think they can hopefully find some help.”

Recovery Stories Save Lives 

Storytelling is an important part of recovery programs like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Human beings often relate to other peoples’ experiences and their stories of experience, strength and hope. Sharing and embracing their stories also helps people in the program celebrate how far they have come. Many people go to 12-step meetings, listen to the stories, and have a seed planted for recovery. 

Stories of recovery can also help destigmatize addiction and recovery. When a person openly and honestly shares their experiences, it can help others feel less alone and ashamed. These stories provide living proof that recovery is possible, which can be incredibly inspiring for struggling people.

Storytelling in NA and AA, and in treatment itself, can be particularly powerful. Each story typically follows a journey—from the depths of addiction to the challenges of early recovery and, ultimately, to a life renewed. People who listen to these stories can learn that growth and healing are achievable despite setbacks. By sharing successes and struggles, speakers convey that recovery is not a straight path but still one very much worth pursuing.

For listeners, stories like these comfort and remind them that they are not alone. This way, storytelling breaks down barriers and creates trust, encouraging individuals to engage fully in their recovery process.

Programs like “We Do Recover” can help inspire others to seek the help they need without shame. 

Addiction is a Treatable Disease 

Addiction, also called substance use disorder, is a disease that can be treated. It affects people from every walk of life, but they do recover. Hope and help are just a phone call away. People who use opioids, marijuana, alcohol or other drugs are able to get the help they need with the assistance of a compassionate, proven treatment program. Call 1-800-425-1564 to learn more about programs that can help.

[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]