Why Addicts Resist Seeing Trauma as the RootWhy Addicts Resist Seeing Trauma as the Root
Doc Jacques: Your Addiction Lifeguard
Dr. Jacques de Broekert discusses why addicts resist acknowledging trauma as the root of their struggles, highlighting the importance of facing trauma for recovery.
28:25•29 Sept 2025
Why Addicts Resist Acknowledging Trauma
Episode Overview
- Trauma is often buried deep and can take time to surface.
- Substances provide a temporary escape but don't address underlying pain.
- Denial and minimisation are common among addicts facing trauma.
- Community support and faith are crucial in the healing process.
- Honesty and openness are essential for confronting trauma.
“"Addiction becomes the shield against the trauma pain."”
Get ready to be moved by real-life accounts of trauma and addiction as Dr. Jacques de Broekert, a psychologist and addiction specialist, unpacks why addicts often resist acknowledging trauma as the root of their struggles. With a mix of clinical insight and personal anecdotes, Dr. Jacques explores how trauma manifests in both 'big T' and 'small t' forms, affecting addicts in profound ways.
He discusses how denial, shame, and fear can lead addicts to minimise their traumatic experiences, using substances as a temporary escape rather than addressing the underlying pain. Dr. Jacques shares compelling stories from his practice, illustrating how trauma can be buried deep, sometimes taking months to surface in therapy. He emphasises the importance of shedding light on these hidden traumas to prevent them from silently chipping away at one's mental health. With light humour and candid reflections, Dr.
Jacques urges listeners to seek professional help and not rely solely on substances for coping. He stresses the need for honesty, openness, community support, and faith in the healing journey. The episode serves as a call to action for anyone battling addiction to confront their trauma and embrace recovery with a sense of hope and resilience. So, are you ready to turn the lights on and face what's been lurking in the shadows?

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