Overcoming Addiction and Homelessness as a Veteran
Jay Wylie, a Navy veteran, shares his journey from addiction and career loss to sobriety and purpose. After being relieved of command and facing a public downfall due to alcoholism, Jay turned his life around through recovery and now dedicates himself to helping veterans and first responders battling addiction and homelessness. As a leader at Confidential Recovery and the Veterans Navigation Center, he provides veterans with resources, peer support, and structured recovery programs. Jay discusses how trauma, shame, and fear can fuel substance abuse and why community support is essential for lasting change.
00:02:30 – Struggling with alcoholism and self-destruction
00:06:45 – Losing command and hitting rock bottom
00:12:15 – The moment Jay sought help and began recovery
00:20:30 – Confidential Recovery and Veterans Navigation Center
00:30:45 – Breaking the stigma around addiction and seeking help
00:45:15 – How veterans can find support and take the first step toward recovery
Links & Resources
- Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
- Confidential Recovery: www.confidentialrecovery.com
- Veterans Navigation Center: www.veteransnavigationcenter.org