The Effects Of Addiction - Episode 22 - The Addict’s Advocate

This conversation is a personal account of Brandon's journey through addiction. It starts with his first experiment with drugs at a young age and how it led to a party lifestyle. He shares experiences of blackouts, being thrown out of parties, and waking up in strange places. Brandon eventually goes to rehab but relapses multiple times, leading to severe health issues including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and osteonecrosis. He emphasizes the hidden effects of alcohol addiction and the need for support and understanding. The conversation revolves around the topics of addiction, recovery, mental health, and the importance of support. Both speakers share their personal experiences with addiction and the challenges they faced. They discuss the role of medication and therapy in managing mental health issues and addiction. They also highlight the power of social media in providing support and connection. The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding and empathy toward addiction as a disease. The speakers encourage each other to stay sober and continue their recovery journey.

Takeaways:

1. Addiction can start at a young age and lead to a destructive party lifestyle.

2. Relapse is a common part of the recovery process.

3. Alcohol addiction can have severe and hidden health effects.

4. Support and understanding are crucial for individuals struggling with addiction.

5. Addiction is a cunning and powerful disease that can sneak up on a person and hijack their life.

6. Medication and therapy can be helpful in managing mental health issues and addiction, but finding the right approach and professionals who understand is crucial.

7. Support from friends, family, and the recovery community is essential in maintaining sobriety and finding hope.

8. Social media can provide a platform for connection, support, and sharing experiences with others who are going through similar struggles.

9. Addiction should be understood as a disease rather than a moral failing, and empathy and understanding are needed to support individuals in their recovery journey.

Guest: B_Michael_Recovery (Instagram)

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:18 Experimentation and the Party Lifestyle

06:22 Post-Rehab Relapse and Severe Health Issues

23:54 Continued Relapse and Health Consequences

25:51 Life Sentence and Helping Others

32:54 The Loneliness and Escalation of Addiction

33:50 The Role of Medications in Managing Mental Health

35:13 The Difference Between Psychiatry and Psychology

37:04 The Power of Social Media in Recovery

39:32 The Journey of Recovery and Staying Sober

43:48 Letting Go of Shame and Embracing the Present

48:50 The Relentless Human Spirit and the Fight Against Addiction