Surviving Holiday Stress: Addiction Insights with Aaron Bekkela
It's sort of feeding off each other and we've got to stop it in some way.
The holiday season often brings joy and warmth, but for many dealing with addiction, it can be a time of intense struggle. In this episode of 'Blindsight', host Bill Lundgrin sits down with Aaron Bekkela, a licensed counselor, to unpack the complexities of addiction during the holidays. They chat about how family dynamics, shame, and enabling behaviors can either support or sabotage recovery efforts.
Aaron doesn't just stop at substance abuse; he dives into other forms of addiction like sexual addiction and pornography, making this conversation incredibly comprehensive. Ever wonder why the holidays can be particularly triggering? Aaron and Bill explore how trauma and mental health issues play a role in making this season challenging for those battling addiction. They offer practical tips on managing stress and navigating the pre-contemplation stage of change.
It's not just about identifying the problems but also finding ways to cope and seek help. Whether you're personally struggling with addiction or have a loved one who is, this episode provides a compassionate, informative perspective that could make a world of difference. Tune in for strategies that can help you or someone you care about survive the holiday season with a bit more ease.