Explore every episode of the podcast Why I Became a Therapist

In the first episode of Why I Became a Therapist, Priory therapist Tess Ridgeway shares her personal story of anxiety, addiction, love addiction, ADHD and recovery.

Tess reflects on feeling anxious and disconnected from a young age, how alcohol, drugs and relationships became ways to escape difficult emotions, and why she now understands addiction as more than the substance or behaviour itself.

She also talks about receiving an ADHD diagnosis later in life, and how this helped her make sense of overwhelm, shame, burnout, perfectionism and the search for quick relief.

Through her story, Tess explores what recovery has taught her about self-understanding, compassion and the power of being met without judgement. She also shares how her lived experience now shapes the way she supports others as a therapist.Why I Became a Therapist is a Priory series sharing real stories from the people behind the profession.Watch Why I Became a Therapist on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLezyhQu8CjJE

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Looking after your mental health should be high on everyone's priority list. At Priory, we strive to help everyone take control of their mental health, building a brighter future for themselves and those around them. For more insight, explainers and, advice on managing your mental health, head to the Priory blog: https://www.priorygroup.com/blog_

This video is designed to be informational, but its content is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you or a loved one are experiencing difficulties with your mental health, please contact a medical professional or a licensed mental health provider for tailored advice for you. If you or a loved one are in crisis and need immediate support, call 999 or attend your nearest A&E department. For information on relevant crisis support lines, visit https://www.priorygroup.com/crisis-support_

Priory is the leading independent provider of mental healthcare and adult social care in the UK. We have two divisions, which together support the needs of over 35,000 people every year. We currently treat more than 70 different conditions through a nationwide network of over 300 facilities. Our purpose is to empower each person in our care to take steps towards a healthy future and live their lives as positively and independently as possible.

For more information on how Priory can help you, head to our website or call us:https://www.priorygroup.com/0330 056 6023

Why I Became a Therapist is a Priory podcast sharing real stories from the people behind the profession. In each episode, therapists speak openly about the life experiences that shaped them, including mental health struggles, addiction, trauma, recovery, neurodiversity and self-understanding. Honest, compassionate conversations about what it means to struggle, rebuild and support others.