Addictions and Cluster B Disorders through an Attachment Based Trauma Informed Lens

Addictions and Cluster B Disorders through an Attachment Based Trauma Informed Lens

Ever felt like your emotions are a rollercoaster you can't get off? In this episode of the 'Counselor Toolbox Podcast with DocSnipes', Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes takes us on a journey through the tangled web of addictions and cluster B personality disorders, all viewed through an attachment-based trauma-informed lens. She starts by shedding light on how disrupted attachment and unresolved trauma can shape personality disorders. Imagine feeling unsafe and drained because of past trauma that never quite goes away.

That's what many people with these disorders experience daily. Dr. Snipes emphasizes that trauma isn't just a childhood issue; it can stick around and even get worse over time. Throughout the episode, she offers practical tools to help identify and manage emotions, build self-esteem, and develop healthy attachments.

For instance, she discusses how someone with narcissistic personality disorder might struggle with grandiose self-importance and threats to their self-concept, while someone with histrionic personality disorder might crave love and attention, often displaying dramatic emotions. Dr. Snipes doesn't just talk theory; she provides actionable advice for promoting emotional regulation and healthier relationships. This episode is a must-listen for anyone grappling with these issues or supporting someone who is.

You'll walk away with a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between addictions, personality disorders, and unresolved trauma, along with practical tools to navigate these challenges.