Embracing Emotional Sobriety: Beyond Just Staying Sober
Episode Overview
Emotional sobriety involves addressing unhealthy dependencies. Feeling seen and heard is crucial for self-esteem in recovery. Empathy and sensitivity are essential within recovery groups. Not everyone in recovery struggles with egomania; some have low self-esteem. Secular recovery approaches offer an inclusive environment for all beliefs.
"When we're not seen, it creates an injury to our self-esteem"
Get ready to dive into the heart of emotional sobriety with Thom Rutledge and Dr. Allen Berger. In this episode, they’re joined by Joe Chisholm at the ICSAA conference in Orlando, Florida. The trio explores the concept of emotional sobriety, a term coined by Bill Wilson, co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous. Wilson believed that true recovery goes beyond just quitting alcohol; it’s about achieving emotional stability by addressing unhealthy dependencies and unrealistic demands.
The episode kicks off with a humorous anecdote about how we often downplay compliments, turning positives into negatives—a cognitive distortion many can relate to. Joe Chisholm shares his journey and the importance of feeling seen and heard within the recovery community. He talks about how early in his recovery, he felt included and supported, which was crucial for his self-esteem. The hosts discuss how the program can sometimes unintentionally shame people, making them feel bad about themselves.
They stress the importance of empathy and sensitivity within the group conscience, reminding us that recovery is about lifting each other up. A key takeaway from this episode is the idea that not everyone in recovery is an egomaniac. Some people struggle with low self-esteem and find it hard to identify with being called selfish or self-centred. The hosts highlight the need for a more nuanced approach, recognising that everyone’s journey is unique and requires different kinds of support.
The episode also touches on the secular nature of the ICSAA conference, where people of all beliefs are welcome. This inclusive atmosphere allows for a diverse range of experiences and perspectives, making it a rich environment for growth and learning. By the end of the episode, you’ll understand why emotional sobriety is considered the next frontier in recovery. It’s not just about staying sober; it’s about achieving a balanced emotional state where other people’s opinions don’t define you.
So, if you’re looking to deepen your understanding of recovery and emotional sobriety, this episode is a must-listen.