Are Addicts Truly Powerless? Unpacking the Debate with Mike Van Meter
Episode Overview
Addiction is a disease that affects the mind and body, leading to powerlessness over substance use. Understanding the impact of genetic predisposition and altered brain chemistry is crucial in addressing addiction. Comprehensive treatment and community support play a pivotal role in the recovery journey. Acknowledging the moral aspect of relapse and the tendency to minimize addiction is essential for sustained recovery. Seeking professional guidance and embracing a program of recovery are instrumental in overcoming powerlessness in addiction.
If you are someone that has even needed to consider stopping, you probably do need to stop. And that really is the definition of powerlessness over this. Because if we could stop of our own willpower, we would have, but we can't. And that's why we need help. We need support. We need guidance. We need community. That's what recovery is all about.
Is it true that addicts are powerless over their substances? In this thought-provoking episode of 'Recovery is Possible', Mike Van Meter tackles one of the most debated concepts in addiction recovery. Drawing from his extensive experience, Mike explores the idea of powerlessness as understood in the 12-step community and beyond. He delves into the disease model of addiction, genetic predispositions, and how substances alter brain chemistry, making it incredibly challenging to resist cravings and impulses.
By explaining neuroplasticity and the role of dopamine, Mike helps listeners understand why addiction feels so overpowering. He also touches on the moral complexities of relapse, denial, and minimization that often accompany addiction. Mike stresses the importance of comprehensive treatment, community support, and professional guidance in the recovery journey. This episode is a must-listen for anyone grappling with addiction or supporting someone who is, offering a compassionate yet realistic view on the road to recovery.