In this powerful Q&A, Darci Shelton, Wasatch Crest Outreach Director, opens up about her personal journey through addiction and recovery, offering a heartfelt look into the challenges and triumphs that come with being a woman in recovery. Darci reflects on how her struggles with substance use, mental health, and trauma led her to a turning point where she made the life-changing decision to seek help. She shares how gender-specific treatment has played a crucial role in her healing, providing a safe space for connection, vulnerability, and self-empowerment. Through her story, Darci inspires women facing similar challenges, showing that recovery is not only possible but can lead to a life full of purpose, love, and strength.
Your Journey: What was your experience with addiction and recovery?
My experience with addiction and recovery has been nothing short of a miracle. My addiction to drugs and alcohol started long before I started using. Growing up, I felt that I was not enough, and that I was different. I experienced panic attacks at a young age and struggled with my mental health and an eating disorder. It wasn’t until I had my daughter that I was introduced to pain medication which led me down an eight-year spiral of using everything and anything I could find.
My addiction caused me to lose custody of my daughter, experience homelessness, go through a divorce, lose jobs and cars, face arrests, and destroy every meaningful relationship—including the one I had with myself. I hated who I was and who I had become. You don’t grow up thinking you want to be an addict when you grow up. I never thought that would be a part of my story. As we know, addiction doesn’t discriminate. It wasn’t until I hit a level of desperation that I finally asked for help. I was terrified to continue living how I was living, which meant it was either get sober or die.
Through this journey, I’ve discovered that I have a voice—that I can be loud and proud of my past and no longer need to play small. I was guided and supported in learning how to live a sober life, reminded that I’m never alone in my struggles, and taught that it’s okay to have days when I’m not okay, because I get to embrace vulnerability, my resilience, self-acceptance and self love.
Gender-Specific Treatment: If you attended gender-specific treatment, how has it impacted your recovery?
I was given the opportunity to not only attend a gender-specific program but also work in gender-specific programs. From this experience, I’ve come to understand that gender-specific treatment is so important. It creates a safe environment for men and women to honestly discuss their unique traumas, upbringing, and experiences, fostering the creation of a true brotherhood or sisterhood.
The word that comes to mind is “magic.” Magic happens in these programs. Women who have been conditioned to view other women as competition, instead find connection, safety, and trust with one another. I was once one of those women who said, “I just get along with guys more than girls.” However in my own recovery, I have built some of the most beautiful relationships, friendships, and —bonds that have truly uplifted and strengthened me.
I’ve also witnessed men breaking down barriers, allowing themselves to cry and be vulnerable with each other. Gender-specific programs eliminate distractions and create an environment of genuine healing.
Balancing Roles: How have you balanced recovery with other roles in your life, such as being a mother, partner, or professional?
Balancing recovery with my roles as a wife, parent, friend and professional has been a journey of its own. I have had many moments of struggle, but I have learned to prioritize self-care above all. My recovery must always come first. If I neglect my self-care or fail to establish healthy boundaries, both my mental health and recovery will suffer. Maintaining this balance —which, I’ll admit, is far from perfect and gets messy at times —has taught me the importance of being present. This presence of mind ultimately strengthens my relationships, supports my recovery, and bolsters my career.
Empowerment: How has recovery empowered you as a woman?
Recovery has empowered me in countless ways. I’ve gained confidence and found my voice. For so long, I played small, afraid to be vulnerable and let people in. I didn’t realize the strength that comes from being true to myself or the freedom of embracing who I really am. Today, I advocate for myself and others, fully aware of who I am. I use my voice to inspire change and motivate those around me. I am an empowered woman —bold, unapologetic, and proud of who I am.
Redefining Identity: How has recovery helped you redefine your identity as a woman?
Recovery has helped me redefine my identity as a woman. I no longer see myself solely through the lens of my addiction or the expectations I once believed I had to meet. Instead, I embrace my strengths, passions, and the invaluable lessons learned through my experiences. I am a survivor, a role model, a mother, a friend, a wife, and a source of support for others.
Inspiration: What message do you have for other women struggling with substance or alcohol use?
My message to other women struggling is this: You are not alone, and it’s never too late to ask for help and let others help you. You deserve a beautiful life—a life full of love, connection, and peace. Recovery is possible, and it can lead to a life overflowing with joy, purpose, and empowerment. Believe in yourself and take that first step in your journey. Life is difficult at times, but I promise you that even in the challenges, there is beauty to be found with a grateful heart. You are worth it, and you deserve healing and happiness.
Related: A Journey of Recovery: A Q&A with Wasatch Crest Alumni Coordinator, Troy Popp
Residential Treatment For Women at Wasatch Crest
Our Jupiter women’s residential treatment program provides a safe, welcoming space and tailored clinical treatment for women struggling with substance use. By encouraging vulnerability and compassion among clients, our Jupiter program promotes deep healing. During their stay, women receive care based on evidence-based modalities, allowing them to process trauma, grief, and loss, cultivate self-compassion, and foster healthy relationships. To learn more, reach out.
