The Role of Safety in Opioid Recovery: Insights from the Polyvagal Theory
Ensuring that clients, friends, or whoever I'm working with feel safe is the foundation for everything that I do, and it's always at the front of my mind.
Ever wondered how feeling safe can influence addiction recovery? In this episode, Jeff Simone dives into the final part of his three-part series on Dr. Stephen Porges' Polyvagal Theory. This theory explores how our body's threat detection system, especially in those who've experienced trauma, impacts addiction recovery. Jeff breaks down why ensuring clients feel safe is crucial in his practice.
He challenges the outdated notion that 'tough love' is the only way to help someone recover from addiction, offering a fresh perspective backed by current research. Jeff's approach is rooted in creating a safe environment for recovery. He shares practical advice for anyone supporting someone through addiction, whether you're a clinician, coach, or friend. His mantra?
Always ask yourself, 'Is what I’m doing right now adding to a feeling of safety?' If the answer is yes, you're on the right track. If not, it's time to rethink your approach. This episode also delves into the growing importance of body-oriented therapy in trauma-informed care. Jeff offers actionable recommendations and shares his own experiences as a practitioner, making this episode a valuable resource for anyone involved in addiction recovery.
Whether you're looking to support yourself or someone else, Jeff's insights provide a compassionate and effective roadmap for recovery.