The Difference Between Abstinence and Recovery
The Difference Between Abstinence and Recovery

Giving Voice to Recovery

Elizabeth and Kristina discuss why recovery is more than just abstinence in this insightful episode.

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33:07•9 Jan 2022

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About this podcast

Giving Voice to Recovery

Giving Voice to Recovery is designed to encourage, inspire and educate people who are seeking help with addiction and for those who are already recovering. In addition to monthly interviews, Elizabeth is hosting a weekly episode of "Just Sayin", a short podcast discussion about recovery concepts and the language that helps us heal. We cover these subjects in broad terms and focus on solutions, education, support and community. We challenge the stigma of addiction and encourage healthy living. We are determined to thrive in recovery. Join us as we share our stories about surviving addiction and thriving in sobriety. Follow Singer Songwriter Elizabeth Edwards as she interviews artists, authors, comedians, musicians, advocates, experts and inspirational figures from a compassionate and heartfelt solution based perspective. Giving Voice to Recovery celebrates those who have found purpose in using their voice to change perceptions and challenge stereotypes while inspiring hope and providing awareness to those still seeking solutions. "There is a healing power in sharing our personal recovery journeys."

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Episodes: 37

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Abstinence vs. Recovery: More Than Just Quitting

“Recovery is a full identity shift, I believe, and an emotional, mental, spiritual shift. But if you love and care about somebody, I would say, is how is that a problem for you as the friend or the parent, and look at the problems that it's causing for you?”

Ever wondered what sets abstinence apart from recovery in the world of addiction treatment? In this episode of 'Giving Voice to Recovery', Elizabeth Edwards sits down with Kristina Wandzilak to unpack this crucial distinction. While abstinence focuses on the act of not using substances, recovery delves deeper into healing the mind, body, and soul. Kristina, known for her work on TLC's 'Addicted' and Lifetime's 'Codependent', shares her wealth of experience as an international interventionist and author.

Elizabeth and Kristina discuss how addiction isn't just about substance abuse but a complex 'soul sickness' that requires comprehensive treatment. They explore the controversial role of medication in harm reduction and the emotional toll addiction takes on families. Kristina's intervention work with couples offers a unique lens into the relational dynamics of addiction. This episode goes beyond surface-level discussions, urging listeners to meet individuals where they are in their recovery journey.

The conversation touches on the importance of finding medical professionals who truly understand addiction and the paradigm shift needed for effective treatment. Elizabeth's heartfelt insights and Kristina's practical advice make this episode a must-listen for anyone affected by addiction. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of what it means to truly recover from addiction, and why it's more than just quitting substances.

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