12th Step Podcast
12th Step Podcast
Shame After the Slip: Breaking the Spiral of Self-Loathing in Recovery
Shame After the Slip: Breaking the Spiral of Self-Loathing in Recovery
Shame After the Slip: Breaking the Spiral of Self-Loathing in Recovery
Friday 20th February 2026
Explore shame and self-worth in recovery with Gary, Mike, and Daniel as they tackle listener Scott's heartfelt questions.
Explicit
32 minutes
Inspiring
Informative
Supportive
Encouraging
Honest
About this podcast
Author:
12th Step Podcast
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Sexual Health in Recovery
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Financial Health in Recovery
Body & Mind
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Episodes:
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Get the buttons here!Breaking the Shame Spiral: Finding Hope After a Slip
Episode Overview
- Recognise the difference between healthy accountability and toxic shame.
- Align actions with values to rebuild self-worth.
- Utilise community support to manage depression and anxiety.
- Engage in self-care activities post-relapse to promote healing.
- Understand the physiological responses to stress in addiction.
"You can handle a relapse like an addict or somebody in recovery."
What drives someone to seek a life without alcohol? In this episode of The 12th Step Podcast, hosts Gary, Mike, and Daniel tackle the challenging emotions of shame and self-loathing that often follow a slip in recovery. With a heartfelt email from listener Scott as their guide, they explore the complex feelings of depression and anxiety that can ensue even when working a solid recovery programme.
The trio discusses how to distinguish between healthy accountability and toxic shame, offering practical advice for those stuck in emotional turmoil. They highlight the importance of understanding one's values and actions to rebuild self-worth, emphasising that incongruence can be a significant barrier. The hosts also delve into the physiological aspects of addiction, sharing an intriguing study about rats and dopamine addiction to illustrate how our bodies might react under stress.
By blending humour with earnest discussions, they provide a supportive space for listeners to reflect on their own recovery journeys. Whether you're battling addiction or supporting someone who is, this episode offers valuable insights and encourages self-compassion. Are you ready to face your own shame spiral and take steps towards healing?