Thursday marked the day Yasmani arrived at the rehabilitation center. He describes it as a miraculous decision, born from his Wednesday night spent sleeping on the streets – when he felt undeserving of shelter or even a meal – that became his breaking point.

At his lowest, Yasmani – now just over 30 – was consuming any drug available without restraint. Though aware of his mother’s suffering, even the thought of his son couldn’t break his addiction. «When you’re deep in that world,» he confesses, «nothing else matters.»

But that morning, his self-disgust overwhelmed him, driving him to Havana’s Psychiatric Hospital determined to recover. By sharing his story, Yasmani hopes to serve as a mirror for others: «If anyone believes they control their drug use, they should abandon that thought. Eventually, the drugs control you.»

His descent began at 22 – youthful curiosity and wanting to keep up with older friends. Soon, every problem demanded chemical relief.

Yasmani speaks with raw honesty about addiction’s grip: «I felt powerless sober, knowing my actions made no sense, yet finding strength nowhere.» He abandoned his infant son, rationalizing visitation money was better spent on drugs. His mother’s chest pains from distress barely registered – he escorted her to hospital only to leave and keep using.

Recovery demanded brutal self-honesty. Unlike many, Yasmani avoided overdose or prison, choosing rehabilitation before catastrophe. The process was grueling – some days doubting the center, but attending anyway, sometimes catching brief sleep before Narcotics Anonymous meetings. «Admitting my problem,» he says, «became my lifeline.»

Now seven months sober, Yasmani cooks for fellow patients at the psychiatric hospital. «I’m an addict,» he acknowledges, «but I want nothing to do with drugs.» The tranquility of sobriety contrasts sharply with his past: «I lost people’s trust and pushed away everyone I loved.»