Episode 92 - Disease of the Mind and Body
Episode 92 - Disease of the Mind and Body

Recovery Is Possible

Many people question the statement that addiction is a disease. However, addiction is a disease of both the mind and the body. Alcohol is not processed the same way in the body of the alcoholic as it is for the non-alcoholic. In this episode I explai...

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17:45•1 Feb 2022

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About this podcast

Recovery Is Possible

Michael Van Meter

Michael has seen first-hand the devastating effects of addiction on the public, his profession, and himself. Michael began his career as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Navy. After eight years, he became a Corrections Officer, Washington DC Police Officer, and then FBI Agent. In 2010, Michael became an instructor at the FBI Academy. In 2013, he created a course titled “Leading At-Risk Employees” geared toward Police Executives to help them understand alcoholism, prescription drug abuse, PTSD, suicide, and domestic violence as it relates to policies and procedures for their agencies worldwide. In 2019, Michael retired from the FBI but his passion for helping others continued. In August 2022, he graduated with a Master’s in Addiction Counseling: Integrated Recovery for Co-Occurring Disorders from the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies. He currently works full-time as a Behavioral Health Therapist at a large nonprofit hospital. Pulling from his personal and professional experience, Michael shares his thoughts on this sensitive, complex, and controversial subject.

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The Genetic Blueprint of Addiction: Alcoholism Explained

“Your brain is saying: this is good, this is really good. Now how quickly it can be, within a matter of minutes.”

Ever wondered why some people can't seem to stop drinking while others can take it or leave it? In this eye-opening episode of 'Recovery Is Possible', Michael Van Meter breaks down the genetic and metabolic differences between alcoholics and non-alcoholics. Drawing from his extensive experience as a former FBI Agent and now a Behavioral Health Therapist, Michael explains how alcohol is processed differently in the bodies of those with alcoholism.

This genetic 'mis-wiring' sends signals to the brain that alcohol is beneficial, making it incredibly hard for alcoholics to quit. But it’s not just about the genes—environment plays a crucial role too. Michael delves into how surroundings and life experiences can influence addiction and recovery. He stresses the importance of viewing addiction as a disease and seeking proper treatment. Whether you’re struggling with alcoholism yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.

Tune in to understand the science behind addiction and find hope for a healthier future.

PreviousEpisode 91 - A Conversation About Suicide with Paul Bertrand

NextEpisode 93 - Dr. Robb Kelly: You are Born with a Million Dollar Mind