Unpacking Childhood Trauma's Role in Addiction with Jodie Stevens
If we didn't get what we need, we later in life will turn to addictions. Those addictions release the same endorphins. Well, those release all those endorphins and all that stuff too.
Childhood trauma can cast a long shadow, often affecting us in ways we might not immediately recognize. In this episode of 'Genuine Life Recovery', Jodie Stevens dives deep into the connection between early trauma and addiction. As a licensed alcohol and drug counselor, Jodie brings a wealth of knowledge and empathy to the table, exploring how our earliest experiences shape our adult lives.
She discusses the crucial elements of attachment and bonding during childhood, explaining how their absence can lead to feelings of fear, anxiety, depression, and loneliness—all of which can trigger addictive behaviors. Jodie also unravels the complex relationship between substance abuse and the brain's chemistry, illustrating how addiction can mimic the feelings of attachment and connection we crave. However, she emphasizes that addiction is a poor substitute for genuine bonding and can lead to deeper isolation and disconnection.
Healing from such deep-seated issues requires us to reconnect with our true selves and embrace authenticity. This journey isn't easy, especially for those with different attachment styles like anxious, avoidant, or disorganized. But Jodie offers a beacon of hope, encouraging listeners that it's possible to relearn how to connect with others and ourselves. She underscores the importance of taking risks, expressing our needs, and being vulnerable in our relationships.
Recovery is undoubtedly challenging, but as Jodie shares, it's a transformative process that leads to profound healing and self-discovery. Tune in for an episode filled with compassionate insights and practical advice on navigating the path to recovery.