Cross Addiction: Breaking the Cycle of Multiple Addictions
The principle is: you put down the substance or the behavior. I eat like you do, I act out sexually, I give up all my relationships like you do, and that connection is really, in many ways, very, very deep among people.
Ever wondered why some people swap one addiction for another? In this episode of 'Let's Talk Addiction & Recovery', host William C. Moyers sits down with Brenda Iliff, Executive Director of Hazelden Betty Ford's Florida operations, to tackle the complex issue of cross addiction. Cross addiction, also known as addiction interaction disorder, happens when individuals replace one problematic substance or behavior with another, all in pursuit of that elusive 'feel good' sensation driven by dopamine.
Brenda sheds light on why addictive behaviors around food, sex, or gaming often thrive in secrecy and how they reinforce each other. The conversation dives into the challenges faced by those juggling multiple addictions and the importance of seeking help. Brenda offers practical advice on understanding these behaviors and highlights the importance of support systems in recovery. Families struggling alongside their loved ones will find hope and actionable strategies to cope and connect.
If you're curious about the interplay between different types of addictions and want to learn more about recovery paths, this episode is a must-listen.