Understanding Annual Cycles in Addiction Recovery
Episode Overview
Recognise patterns and cycles in your addiction. Understand how seasons and marketing can trigger behaviours. Develop strategies to create healthier cycles. Communicate with support systems about your challenges. Use personal experiences to identify and address triggers.
We've programmed ourselves that at certain times of the year, once the Count Chocula shows up on the counter, I start going to XYZ habits
Ever wondered if your struggles follow an annual pattern? In this episode of The 12th Step Podcast, Gary and Daniel, along with special guest Jeff, dive into the concept of annual cycles in addiction recovery. Jeff, a listener and fellow recovering addict, shares his experiences and observations about how certain times of the year can be more challenging than others.
He discusses how springtime, in particular, triggers difficult emotions and behaviours for him, sparking a fascinating conversation about the impact of seasons on recovery. The hosts explore the idea that our brains might be programmed to respond to specific seasonal cues, making some periods tougher to navigate than others. They also touch on how marketing and societal changes during different seasons can influence addictive behaviours.
This episode is filled with personal stories, practical advice, and a bit of humour, making it a must-listen for anyone in recovery or supporting someone who is. Tune in to learn how recognising these patterns can help you create healthier cycles and strategies for long-term recovery.