The Refuge Ministry
The Refuge Ministry
Addiction: Habit or Disease? (Episode 5 - Archive)
Addiction: Habit or Disease? (Episode 5 - Archive)
Addiction: Habit or Disease? (Episode 5 - Archive)
Tuesday 14th October 2025
Explore the complex nature of addiction with Wes Thompson and Austin Hill as they discuss habits vs. disease with guest Matthew.
9 minutes
Inspiring
Informative
Honest
Hopeful
Raw
About this podcast
Author:
The Refuge Ministry
Overview:
Categories:
Religion & Spirituality
Recovery from Trauma
Healing Relationships
Creative Recovery Journeys
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Links:
Visit site
Episodes:
3526 (View all)
Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!Is Addiction a Habit or Disease? A Deep Dive with Matthew
Episode Overview
- Addiction often starts as a coping mechanism for pain and discontent.
- There's a thin line between being dependent on a drug and being addicted.
- Joy—or the lack thereof—plays a crucial role in addiction.
- Recovery is possible even when hope seems to be fading.
- Personal stories can offer valuable insights into the nature of addiction.
"If I have my drug, I am happy. If I don't have it, life is miserable."
Curious about how others navigate their sobriety journey? In this engaging episode of Relational Recovery, hosts Wes Thompson and Austin Hill dive into the complex debate: is addiction a habit or a disease? With the help of their guest, Matthew, they unravel personal stories and experiences that bring depth to this discussion. Matthew candidly shares his journey from dependency to recovery, highlighting how joy—or the lack thereof—played a pivotal role in his addiction.
The conversation explores how addiction often starts as a coping mechanism for pain and discontent, evolving into a parasitic relationship that strips away joy and autonomy. They discuss the thin line between dependency and addiction, questioning whether it's possible to be dependent on a drug without being addicted. The dialogue is rich with personal anecdotes and thought-provoking insights, as Matthew reflects on his struggle with opiates and the moment he realised he needed help.
The episode doesn't shy away from the raw truths of addiction, including the cycle of withdrawal and relapse. Yet, it also offers hope, as Matthew recounts how he found the courage to seek change before hitting rock bottom. This narrative serves as a reminder that recovery is possible, even when hope seems to be slipping away. Listeners are invited to reflect on their own experiences and consider what brings joy into their lives.
This episode is not just for those battling addiction but for anyone interested in understanding the human condition and the search for joy amidst life's challenges. So, what brings joy into your life, and how can it help you or someone you know in their recovery journey?