"The Addicted Mind Podcast" offers hope, understanding, and guidance for those dealing with addiction, with real stories and research to inspire and show the journey to recovery is worth it.
Stuck in Survival Mode? A Fresh Look at Trauma & Addiction
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Hi Reader, Have you ever felt like your body is on high alert, as if braced for an impact that never comes? Maybe you're exhausted from living in a state of fight-or-flight, always waiting for the next shoe to drop. And in those quiet, overwhelming moments, you might find yourself reaching for something to switch off the noise—a drink, a pill, a distraction. I want you to know two things right now:
When we experience trauma, our brains can get rewired to live in “survival mode”—a constant state of stress and vigilance, even when danger has long passed. That’s not a willpower issue; it’s biology. Many people turn to substances or behaviors as a desperate way to self-soothe. It’s not about failing; it’s about being human. The good news? There’s a way out. By learning to listen to your body’s signals and working to regulate your nervous system, you can start breaking free. Simple practices like body scanning or tuning into how your body feels can begin to quiet your brain’s alarm system. These small steps help shift the question from "What's wrong with me?" to "What happened to me?" That small shift? It changes everything. Take care of yourself, Duane P.S. Remember, healing isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. You’ve got this. |
The Addicted Mind Podcast
"The Addicted Mind Podcast" offers hope, understanding, and guidance for those dealing with addiction, with real stories and research to inspire and show the journey to recovery is worth it.
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