Hi ES -
Welcome to recovery!
I can't answer the second part of your post - I am one of those who'd destroyed my entire life - I had no friends or family left to tell.
I had noplace left to go.
I think the part you spoke of about being able to come here and post
proves the vital service that SR is performng for the world at large.
It's a blessing that way.
hang out, keep posting -
maybe others will come along
with advice about
your immediate environment.
Have you chosen a program of recovery?
I noticed the SR/AA conversation reference ...
just wondered how you were handling that part?
and -
congratulations on your first week!