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Hi Reader, Here is something we don't always think about: The music you listen to affects your mind more than you realize. Music can change your mood, lower stress, boost motivation, and even bring back memories and emotions in seconds. Sometimes that is helpful. Sometimes not so much. Ever notice how one song can calm you down, while another makes your nervous system feel like it drank three energy drinks? That is because music taps directly into emotion and memory. In recovery and mental health, it helps to pay attention to the soundtrack you are feeding your brain every day. Ask yourself: There is no perfect playlist for everyone. But being intentional matters. Sometimes the healthiest thing you can do is change the song. And honestly, life already has enough background noise. Keep listening, Duane |
"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.
Hi Reader, This week on the podcast, I sat down with Dr. Muhamad Aly Rifai to talk about something that is becoming a growing concern in addiction and mental health treatment: Kratom and 7-OH products. A lot of people assume these products are harmless because they are sold openly in gas stations and smoke shops. But Dr. Rifai shares what he is seeing clinically, including severe withdrawal symptoms that can look a lot like opioid addiction. We also talk about how addiction actually changes...
Hi Reader, Here is a small reminder: Not everything needs your reaction. Every day, things show up that try to pull us in. A frustrating comment. Bad news. A stressful moment. An uncomfortable feeling. Our brains often want to react right away. But here is the good news: You can notice something without engaging with it. Think of it like standing on the sidewalk watching traffic. You see the cars go by, but you do not have to jump into every one. The same is true for thoughts, emotions, and...
Hi Reader, This week on the podcast, I sat down with Robert “Bob” Stark, and his story really stayed with me. Bob is an Army veteran, author, and someone who has been clean and sober for 11 years after an 18-year struggle with substance use. We talked about his transition home after Iraq, the pressure many men feel to stay tough and silent, and how writing became one of the biggest tools in his healing. What I loved about this conversation is that Bob does not pretend recovery is simple. He...