Posted March 1, 2026

recovery Conversations Belong in Women’s History, Too

When we celebrate Women’s History Month, we usually highlight accomplishments — the breakthroughs, the talent, the bold leadership. Women like:

• Betty Ford, the first lady and founder of the renowned Betty Ford Treatment Center

• Marty Mann, founder of the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence

• Mercedes McCambridge, the actress who testified at the 1969 U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Alcohol and Narcotics

• or Lois Wilson, founder of AL-ANON

(you can learn more about them on our social media)

But behind some other recognizable names are stories that don’t always make the highlight reel.

Addiction doesn’t care who is talented or famous or beautiful. Many of the women in this series were navigating chronic pain, trauma, isolation, impossible expectations, or untreated mental health challenges — often in eras where help didn’t exist the way it does today.

Each of their cases provide valuable lessons. In the short video below, you’ll learn more about:

• Elizabeth Siddal - artist, model, poet

• Louisa May Alcott - writer, poet

• Princess Charlotte of Prussia

• Anne Brontë - novelist, poet

• Zelda Fitzgerald - painter, writer, socialite

• Billie Holiday - Jazz singer

• Marie Correlli - novelist

• Frances Farmer - actress

• Elizabeth Sitwell - poet, critic

• Vivienne Haigh-Wood Elliot - poet TS Elliot's first wife

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, or just wants to know if what they do might be considered problematic, contact us at stellamariscleveland.com/help.

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