Clean vs. Sober: Understanding Emotional Sobriety with Dr. Andrea Vitz
Being sober is not even being tempted to use them for the purpose of feeling different, because you hate your life or you have some kind of discord or stress, or you know deep-rooted trauma that you're reaching for alcohol, for a chemical change in your body because our emotions are chemicals.
Ever wondered about the difference between being clean and being sober? In this thought-provoking episode of 'Levelheaded Talk', Dr. Andrea Vitz and Jon Leon Guerrero break it down for you. Dr. Vitz explains that being clean means abstaining from drugs and alcohol, while being sober goes a step further—it's about not even feeling the urge to use these substances to alter your mood.
She delves into the reasons why people reach for external substances and how emotional sobriety can enhance, and be enhanced by, physical sobriety. The hosts dive deep into the idea that our emotions are chemicals, and reaching for alcohol or drugs to change our emotional state is not a sober act. Instead, Dr. Vitz encourages listeners to aim for a level of emotional sobriety where the desire to use these substances is non-existent.
Imagine making decisions with a clear mind and understanding the real motives behind your actions—this is the essence of emotional sobriety. But it's not just about those in recovery. Dr. Vitz and Jon highlight that emotional sobriety benefits everyone, offering greater clarity, peace, and control over habits and behaviors. They also touch on the invaluable role of the recovery community, whose collective wisdom can guide others on this journey.
This episode is packed with practical tips and profound insights, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to achieve a balanced and clear state of mind. Whether you're battling addiction or simply seeking better mental health, this conversation offers something for everyone.