Conquering Shame: Essential Steps for Lasting Sobriety
The best explanation of shame that I have heard is that guilt is the feeling that I did something bad and shame is the feeling that I am a bad person.
Feeling anxious about the holiday season? You're not alone. In this episode of the HammeredRecovery Podcast, Justin Hammerback kicks things off by addressing common holiday anxieties and offers seven practical tips to navigate this tricky time. From crafting an escape plan to practicing self-care, Justin has you covered. But the heart of this episode dives into a deeper, more pressing issue: shame. Justin breaks down the difference between guilt and shame in a way that's easy to grasp.
Guilt is feeling bad for what you've done, while shame makes you feel like you are bad. This distinction is crucial for anyone on the path to long-term sobriety. Justin opens up about his own battles with shame and shares how admitting his alcoholism out loud, both to himself and others, was a game-changer. He doesn’t stop there. Justin introduces listeners to the '3 C's of Al-Anon': you didn't Cause it, you can't Control it, and you can't Cure it.
These principles are liberating for anyone feeling weighed down by shame. He also recommends saying your truth in various settings—from AA meetings to casual conversations with friends—to chip away at the shame. And if you think childhood trauma might be fueling your shame, Justin suggests diving into recovery-related books like 'Good Morning, Monster' by Catherine Gildner. He shares an inspiring story from the book about a girl named Laura who overcame a horrifying childhood and reclaimed her life.
By the end of the episode, Justin emphasizes the importance of self-forgiveness and acceptance. He encourages listeners to seek support and resources to help them on their journey. Whether you're dealing with holiday stress or grappling with deeper issues of shame, this episode offers invaluable insights and practical advice.