Daniel Unmanageable
Daniel Unmanageable
Neuroscientist, Dr. Kim Hellemans: Addiction, Epigenetics, and Early Life Trauma.
Neuroscientist, Dr. Kim Hellemans: Addiction, Epigenetics, and Early Life Trauma.
Neuroscientist, Dr. Kim Hellemans: Addiction, Epigenetics, and Early Life Trauma.
Thursday 2nd March 2023
Neuroscientist Dr. Kim Hellemans discusses how early life trauma affects addiction and highlights recovery strategies in this episode of Hard Knox Talks.
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48 minutes
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Engaging
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Daniel Unmanageable
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Sobriety Toolkit
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Get the buttons here!Dr. Kim Hellemans on How Trauma Shapes Addiction: Insights from Neuroscience
What I can tell you is that based on my research and the research of many others around the world, is that there is a
What if the roots of addiction run deeper than you think? In this eye-opening episode of 'Hard Knox Talks: Sober Stories. Real Talk.', host Daniel Unmanageable chats with neuroscientist Dr. Kim Hellemans, a teaching professor and Associate Dean of Science at Carleton University. Dr. Hellemans, who also co-hosts the podcast 'Minding the Brain', brings her two decades of research to the table, exploring how early life trauma can fundamentally alter brain function and contribute to substance use disorders.
Drawing from her own family history of trauma and addiction, Dr. Hellemans breaks down complex concepts into relatable insights. She explains how trauma can ramp up the brain's fear centers, leaving individuals in a perpetual state of unease that often leads them to seek solace in substances. But it's not all doom and gloom; Dr. Hellemans highlights protective factors that can aid recovery, such as supportive environments, regular exercise, and good nutrition.
The episode also dives into the roles of genetics and epigenetics in addiction, shedding light on how our DNA and life experiences interact to shape our vulnerabilities. Emerging therapies like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and psychedelics are discussed as promising avenues for treatment. Additionally, Dr. Hellemans touches on the long-lasting impact of residential schools and the critical need for trauma-informed care.
Whether you're personally affected by addiction or simply curious about the science behind it, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and hope. Tune in to understand how trauma and addiction intertwine and discover practical steps toward recovery.