Breaking the 'Rock Bottom' Myth: Insights on Sobriety from Betsy Byler
What gets a person sober is extremely unique. There are some commonalities, and we'll talk about that in a little bit, but the reason that it matters is that if the idea is that they'll quit when they hit bottom, that does a couple things.
Does someone really need to hit rock bottom to start their journey to sobriety? In this episode of 'All Things Substance', licensed therapist and substance abuse counselor Betsy Byler tackles this common misconception head-on. Hollywood often paints a dramatic picture where only the lowest lows can spark a change, but Betsy offers a different, more nuanced perspective. She explains why this belief can be harmful and how it overlooks the unique paths individuals take toward recovery.
Through her compassionate lens, Betsy emphasizes that the readiness to change is what truly drives recovery, not some mythical rock bottom. She shares stories from her own practice, illustrating how each person's journey is distinct and how crucial it is to find the right treatment plan. Betsy also touches on the broader realities of addiction, debunking the idea that everyone who uses substances will inevitably become addicted.
This episode is a refreshing take on addiction recovery, filled with empathy and practical advice, making it a must-listen for anyone affected by addiction, whether personally or professionally.