Excuses and Shame: A Deep Dive into Addiction and Recovery
It's very easy for something like drink to cover up the deeper lying difficulties that then never get addressed, which is what we often come up with when we're talking about it in groups that we can come into recovery and all of a sudden you sober up and all of a sudden all these problems that you've never dealt with, you've put them on the back burner because you've just drunk to excess or taken drugs to stop those feelings and those emotions coming to the surface.
Ever wondered why we come up with all those excuses to justify our drinking? In this episode of 'Sideways', hosts Graham Landi and Martin Pankhurst tackle this very question with their signature blend of empathy and humor. They unravel the elaborate justifications we create to defend our drinking habits and the ones we invent after a night out when we've gone a bit overboard.
But it’s not just about the excuses; they dig into the role shame plays in our behavior and the moment we realize we're not even fooling ourselves anymore. The conversation doesn't stop there. Graham and Martin also explore how alcohol often serves as a band-aid for deeper, unresolved issues. They emphasize the importance of addressing these underlying problems in the journey to recovery.
One memorable quote from the episode sums it up perfectly: 'It's very easy for something like drink to cover up the deeper lying difficulties that then never get addressed'. This episode isn't just about pointing out problems; it's about finding healthier ways to cope, like picking up hobbies or engaging in activities that bring genuine joy. Adding a lighter touch, the hosts also chat about some quirky topics like facial hair in the music industry and bizarre toothache remedies.
Their ability to mix serious discussions with light-hearted banter makes 'Sideways' a unique listen, offering both insight and entertainment. Whether you're struggling with addiction, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about the subject, this episode offers a thoughtful and engaging look at the complexities of addiction and recovery.