TAM+ EP74 Stuck in Survival Mode? The Link Between Trauma and Addiction

TAM+ EP74 Stuck in Survival Mode? The Link Between Trauma and Addiction

Ever felt like you're constantly bracing for impact, even when there's no real danger? In this episode of The Addicted Mind Podcast, host Duane Osterlind tackles the deep-seated link between trauma and addiction. With a warm and empathetic approach, Duane sheds light on how past experiences can keep you stuck in survival mode, impacting your mental health and leading to addictive behaviours. He explains that this isn't a moral failing but a natural response to unresolved trauma.

Drawing from the work of experts like Dr. Bruce Perry and Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, Duane explores how trauma reshapes the brain and body, leaving lasting imprints that drive the cycle of addiction. Duane offers practical advice for breaking free from this cycle, such as engaging in body scans and adopting gentle self-care practices. These methods help reconnect your thinking brain with your feeling body, allowing you to handle discomfort without resorting to substances or harmful behaviours.

This episode is a beacon of hope for anyone grappling with addiction, emphasising that healing is possible by embracing your body's signals rather than escaping them. Whether you're personally affected by addiction or supporting someone who is, Duane's compassionate guidance and actionable steps offer a path towards recovery. So why not take a moment to listen and explore how understanding trauma can transform your journey? This episode promises to shift perspectives and open doors to healing.