Held Hostage by Insecurities explores a lesser-spoken truth about addiction: that it often begins long before substances enter the picture. It begins in the mind—through insecurity, fear, and the quiet belief that we are not enough.
In this deeply personal and unfiltered account, Pieter O’Neill chronicles his journey through addiction, anxiety, and self-loss, revealing how escape became a coping mechanism and how awareness became the path to freedom. Through raw storytelling and thoughtful reflection, the book examines how modern distractions, quick fixes, and unaddressed emotional wounds shape the struggles faced by today’s youth.
Rather than offering easy answers, Held Hostage by Insecurities invites readers to confront the patterns that keep them stuck, reclaim ownership of their thoughts, and choose a life rooted in intention, clarity, and purpose. This book is a testament to the power of self-honesty—and to the quiet strength found in healing.
About the Author
Pieter O’Neill
Pieter O’Neill is a South African writer and speaker focused on addiction recovery, mental health, and personal transformation. A recovered addict himself, he draws from lived experience to explore the internal battles that shape behaviour, identity, and self-worth.
Through his writing, O’Neill advocates for emotional awareness, intentional living, and resilience in a world saturated with distraction and avoidance. His work speaks especially to young people navigating insecurity, pressure, and the search for meaning.
He lives with his partner and family, grounded in connection, clarity, and purpose—values that continue to guide both his life and his message.
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