Chase Cotten - The Willow Center
Chase Cotten - The Willow Center
Season 3, Episode 4 - Myth Busting: ”Addiction Is Only an External Problem” (Mental Health Awareness Month)
Season 3, Episode 4 - Myth Busting: ”Addiction Is Only an External Problem” (Mental Health Awareness Month)
Season 3, Episode 4 - Myth Busting: ”Addiction Is Only an External Problem” (Mental Health Awareness Month)
Monday 22nd May 2023
Explore the connection between addiction and mental health with Angel Brooks in this insightful episode for Mental Health Awareness Month.
31 minutes
Informative
Compassionate
Supportive
Engaging
Hopeful
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Author:
Chase Cotten - The Willow Center
Overview:
Categories:
Recovery Reimagined
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Get the buttons here!Busting Myths: Is Addiction Just an External Problem?
Episode Overview
- Addiction often stems from coping with mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
- Recognising addiction as a disease can reduce stigma and barriers to treatment.
- Self-care strategies include asking for help and setting small goals.
- Exercise naturally boosts serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain.
- Addiction impacts both external behaviours and internal mental health.
"It's a cycle of insanity – pleasure seeking and relief from substances that turns into dependency."
The Willow Center Podcast brings you an engaging discussion this month with Clinical Director Angel Brooks, diving into the myth that addiction is merely an external problem. With May marking Mental Health Awareness Month, hosts Chase and Mason explore the intricate relationship between addiction and mental health. Angel, a seasoned clinical social worker, shares her vast experience working with individuals who face both substance use disorders and mental health challenges.
She highlights how addiction often serves as a coping mechanism for underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. The episode tackles the misconception that addiction is a choice or solely a behavioural issue. Angel explains how addiction fits the disease model, affecting the midbrain and leading to symptoms much like any other medical condition. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, she underscores the importance of recognising addiction as both a biological and psychological challenge.
Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health, and consider practical self-care strategies. Angel advocates for seeking help, connecting with others, and setting small goals to combat negative feelings. Whether it's exercising for a natural serotonin boost or reaching out to a friend, she emphasises the power of simple actions in fostering recovery.
This episode is not just informative but also deeply compassionate, offering hope and understanding to those affected by addiction and mental health struggles. With a mix of humour and heartfelt dialogue, it encourages listeners to rethink their perceptions and support loved ones in their journey towards healing. Why not tune in to gain valuable insights and perhaps challenge your own beliefs about addiction?