Content Warning: This article discusses drug use, heroin addiction, and trauma. John Makohen, a seasoned substance use counselor and author of *A Heroin User’s Guide to Harm Reduction*, shares his lived experience of life on the streets, the risks of drug use, and the lessons that shaped his journey toward recovery.

People in an abusive relationship are at risk of developing mental health disorders such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), deliberate self-harm, even suicidal thoughts or behavior.