Di McQueen and Dr. Brian Jackson

Healing Families Shattered by Addiction

Di McQueen and Dr. Brian Jackson

  • The HIGH-Jacked Brain

The HIGH-Jacked Brain

Tuesday 9th July 2024

Explore the science behind addiction and its impact on families with Di McQueen and Dr. Brian Jackson. Learn practical strategies for recovery and support.
23 minutes
Informative
Compassionate
Supportive
Educational
Hopeful

About this podcast

Healing Families Shattered by Addiction
Author:
Di McQueen and Dr. Brian Jackson
Overview:
Categories:
Family Recovery from Addiction
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Sobriety Toolkit
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Body & Mind
Links:
Visit site
Episodes:
48 (View all)
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Understanding Addiction: The HIGH-Jacked Brain

Episode Overview

  • Addiction hijacks the brain's chemistry, making it hard to stop.
  • Understanding neurobiology can help families support loved ones.
  • Pain and self-medication are common triggers for substance use.
  • Holistic recovery includes exercise, nutrition, and a supportive network.
  • Self-care is crucial for family members dealing with a loved one's addiction.
It's not about willpower; it's about understanding the brain's chemistry and how addiction hijacks it.
In this episode of Healing Families Shattered by Addiction, hosts Di McQueen and Dr. Brian Jackson dive into the complexities of substance use disorders and their profound impact on families. They break down the science behind addiction, addressing common misconceptions and the stigma that often surrounds it. Dr. Jackson explains how addiction hijacks the brain, making it difficult for those affected to simply 'stop'.
The duo also discusses the role of pain and self-medication in addiction, highlighting how individuals often use substances to cope with various forms of pain—be it physical, emotional, or spiritual. The conversation is packed with practical strategies for recovery and family support. Di and Brian share personal anecdotes and professional insights, offering a blend of empathy and expertise. They emphasise the importance of understanding the neurobiology of addiction, which can help families better support their loved ones.
You'll learn about the critical role of dopamine and serotonin in addiction and recovery, and why it's so challenging to break free from substance use disorders. Di and Brian also touch on the importance of a holistic approach to recovery, including exercise, proper nutrition, and building a supportive network. They stress that recovery is not a one-size-fits-all journey and that both the individual and their family need to work together to heal.
The episode wraps up with a discussion on the importance of self-care for family members, who often neglect their own well-being while trying to support their loved ones. If you're struggling with a loved one's addiction or seeking ways to support them, this episode offers invaluable advice and practical tools to help you navigate this challenging journey. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of addiction and find hope in the recovery process.