Susan P's Journey: Addiction, Trauma, and Healing on Mental Illness Happy Hour
I couldn't get past my hatred of myself, because I believed that not only had I done things that were wrong, I was wrong, my very essence was wrong, and you turned a light bulb on in my head that maybe I'm redeemable, maybe I can get better and I can be a force for good in the world rather than a cancer.
What happens when your past is filled with trauma and your present is a battle with addiction? In this episode of 'Mental Illness Happy Hour', host Paul Gilmartin sits down with Susan P, a friend from his support group, to unravel her poignant story. Susan, a black woman in America, shares the raw and unfiltered truth about her struggles with love addiction and the destructive patterns of seeking unavailable men.
Growing up in Atlanta during the notorious Atlanta child murders added another layer of complexity to her life, leaving scars that would take years to address. Throughout their conversation, Susan opens up about the wreckage caused by her actions and the path she took towards recovery. She discusses the pivotal role of counseling and the transformative power of self-compassion. Her candid reflections on race, depression, and even Buddhism offer a multifaceted view of healing.
Susan’s journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility of redemption. For anyone grappling with similar issues or supporting someone who is, this episode provides a deep dive into the complexities of trauma and addiction. Susan’s story is not just about surviving but finding a way to thrive despite the odds.
Her words, 'maybe I'm redeemable, maybe I can get better and I can be a force for good in the world rather than a cancer', resonate with hope and the potential for change. Tune in to hear Susan P's compelling narrative and gain insights into the importance of self-compassion and professional help in overcoming life's toughest challenges.