#71: Breaking addictions to gain a new life

addiction recovery story Aug 03, 2020
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FROM THIS SHOW…

 

How far can you get into an addiction before it takes you to the end of yourself? Do you secretly enjoy something that robs you of self-control and makes you utterly dependent? Sometimes it starts innocently. Other times you get pulled suddenly in by the power and desperation of mental illness.

One of the not-so-secret aspects of living with a bipolar disorder is living with an addiction of some kind. Would you go for the bottle when your depression is never ending? Would you try something “harder” just to get into the expressive and emotionally soaring vistas of bipolar hypomania?

On today’s episode of The Bipolar Now Podcast, Aaron shares with Mike about the path of addiction to alcohol. Together they pull apart one of the sources of temptation (hint: it’s family) and marvel at how dangerously close they’ve both been to losing their lives because of it.

 

Listen to the podcast:

 

 

Click here to listen on Apple Podcasts!  With every past episode at your fingertips, plus special Bonus Content with my guests, what's not to love! And if you're feeling generous, would you please leave me a review? It is a special treat to read each and every one of them. Just write about your favorite part of the show! :-) 

 

TAKEAWAYS

  • Environment plays a powerful role in the adoption of addictive habits. Even if your family loves you, your addictive tendencies aren’t just genetic. They are also social.

  • Being a “professional” addict means your friends and family can’t detect anything wrong with you. Sometimes it takes years for your body to show signs of using.

  • Recovery from alcoholism (in the case of Aaron) is a must when your body can no longer tolerate even a hint of beer, liquor, or wine.

 

Lifer Discussion Guide

There are no questions for today’s show. For a great conversation, ask someone to hear you tell the story of your addiction and where you’re at now. They will be amazed by you!

“Lifers” are special people who have unwavering faithfulness. This assures you that they’ll stick around through all the highs and lows that are normal for a life with mental health challenges. If you haven’t nominated a lifelong family member or friend as part of your non-medical support team, what are you waiting for? :-)

 

Join the Tribe!

Once you’ve had a chance to talk or journal about these things you might have a question from this episode. If so, make sure you head on over to The Bipolar Now Podcast Network on Facebook! There’s quite a few people over there who are also taking a new step in their mental health. And we’d love for you to share your story with us when you’re ready. So don’t miss out!

 

Other ways to enjoy this episode

Download a transcript