Breaking Down Shame and Stigma in Addiction with Dr. Jason Luoma
Shame is an emotion, and the core of the emotion is a sense that there's something wrong with you, that you feel perhaps inferior or perhaps damaged, or there's a sense that maybe in more extreme ways, you may even feel like you've been hurt, like you're evil, or you're tainted or broken, or things like that.
Shame and stigma are two emotions that can weigh heavily on anyone, but they can be particularly crushing for those battling addiction. In this episode of 'The Beyond Addiction Show', Dr. Josh King sits down with Dr. Jason Luoma, a clinical psychologist and researcher, to dissect these challenging emotions and their impact on addiction recovery. Dr.
Luoma has dedicated his career to understanding how shame and stigma affect mental health and addiction, making him the perfect guest to shed light on this topic. Dr. Luoma explains that shame often stems from a deep-seated belief that there's something fundamentally wrong with us. This feeling can be rooted in childhood experiences, societal messages, or our own negative self-talk. For those struggling with addiction, this sense of shame can be magnified, leading them to feel worthless or broken.
But shame isn't just a personal burden; it's also shaped by societal stigma. Negative attitudes and beliefs about substance use can intensify feelings of isolation and reinforce the shame individuals feel about their addiction. The conversation between Dr. King and Dr. Luoma highlights the crucial role of supportive relationships in overcoming these barriers. Shame and stigma can make it incredibly difficult for people to seek help, but having a network of understanding and non-judgmental support can make all the difference.
Dr. Luoma emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces where individuals can explore their shame without fear of judgment. One of the key takeaways from this episode is the need for healthcare providers to foster welcoming environments for those seeking addiction treatment. By reducing stigma and emphasizing the inherent worth of every individual, we can help people overcome the shame that often prevents them from getting the help they need.
This episode wraps up on a hopeful note, offering strategies for supporting loved ones through their struggles with shame and stigma. If you or someone you care about is dealing with addiction, this episode is a must-listen. Dr. King and Dr. Luoma provide valuable insights into breaking down these emotional barriers and paving the way for recovery.