Sobriety Survival: Thriving Through Tough Times
Episode Overview
Use your support system actively during tough times. Engage in novel activities to build new neural pathways. Understand how alcohol affects brain chemistry. Find joy in everyday moments to sustain sobriety. Connect with community for emotional support.
"Our bodies produce three natural, feel-good chemicals: serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin."
In this episode of RAW Recovery, Dion welcomes Christine from The Daily Trudge to explore the challenges of maintaining sobriety during tough times. With a mix of humour and heartfelt honesty, they tackle the emotional rollercoaster that can threaten one's recovery journey. Christine shares her experiences facilitating DUI groups, where participants often face significant life challenges, such as the loss of loved ones.
She emphasises the importance of using support systems and finding new ways to cope without relying on alcohol. Dion and Christine discuss the brain's chemistry, explaining how substances like alcohol affect the production of feel-good chemicals like dopamine. They offer practical advice for building new neural pathways through novel activities and finding joy in everyday moments. Christine’s journey from electrician to addiction counsellor provides a unique perspective, highlighting the importance of community and connection in recovery.
Listeners will find relatable anecdotes about overcoming grief and anxiety without resorting to alcohol. Christine's approach is rooted in evidence-based treatment, while Dion brings insights from his experience with AA, creating a dynamic conversation filled with empathy and understanding. By the end of the episode, you'll feel inspired to tap into your support network and explore new interests that can help sustain sobriety.
Whether you're in recovery or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers valuable insights into navigating life's challenges with resilience and hope.