Healing From Childhood Trauma- Rex ShadesEagle | Recovery Matters Podcast Ep. 96Healing From Childhood Trauma- Rex ShadesEagle | Recovery Matters Podcast Ep. 96
Recovery Matters! Podcast
***A QUICK WARNING***: This episode contains raw depictions of traumatic events, which include sexual abuse/violence towards minors and mention of a suicide attempt. Listener discretion is heavily advised. Rex ShadesEagle overcame his addiction after 27 years by addressing his childhood pain. From the age of six to twelve, he was subjected to physical and sexual abuse until being expelled onto the streets for retaliating against his abuser. On the streets of South New Jersey, he would learn how to hustle, lie, cheat, and steal. Rex kept using heroin for the next 20 years, going in and out of jail, until one night in October 2013 when the lies crumbled and a new man emerged.
46:50•15 Nov 2022
Rex ShadesEagle's Journey: From Childhood Trauma to Recovery
“The greatest gift I ever received from god was understanding that I do belong here, that I am supposed to be here.”
Imagine facing unimaginable trauma as a child and carrying that pain into adulthood. In this eye-opening episode of the 'Recovery Matters! Podcast', hosts Phil and Sandy Valentine sit down with Rex ShadesEagle, who bravely shares his harrowing yet inspiring story. From ages six to twelve, Rex endured physical and sexual abuse, leading to a life on the streets of South New Jersey. His journey into addiction spanned 27 years, marked by heroin use and multiple stints in jail.
However, in October 2013, Rex began to rebuild his life by confronting the deep-seated pain of his past. This episode doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of trauma and addiction. Rex's candid account includes raw depictions of abuse and a suicide attempt, so listener discretion is advised. But within this rawness lies a powerful message about the importance of addressing childhood trauma in recovery.
Rex explains how facing his past was crucial for his healing process and how finding a supportive community made all the difference. One of the standout themes is the power of vulnerability. Rex discusses how being open and honest with himself and others became a cornerstone of his recovery. The conversation also highlights the significance of storytelling in healing. By sharing his experiences, Rex not only finds solace but also helps others feel less isolated in their struggles.
The episode also touches on men's mental health and suicide prevention. Rex's advocacy for the Nine, Eight, Eight bill, which aims to establish a national suicide prevention hotline, underscores the transformative potential of recovery. His work in this area shows how giving back can be a powerful part of one's healing journey. Towards the end, Rex reflects on self-worth and belonging, sharing that understanding his place in the world has been his greatest gift.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone touched by addiction or trauma, offering hope and insight into the resilience of the human spirit.
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