Peer Support Groups Demystified: Overcoming Fears, MythsDiscover the Power of Peer Support in Addiction Recovery! On this Substance Stories episode, host Dr. Richard Bradlow and guest Nathan Akoka from the Victoria Clinic dive deep into peer support groups in substance abuse recovery.
Explore peer support through 12 step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), Gamblers Anonymous, and SMART Recovery. Curious about virtual peer support groups or peer support for veterans? This episode has you covered!
Learn how group therapy fosters social connection, combats depression, and supports PTSD recovery through shared experiences. Discover the role of spirituality in recovery, navigating higher power concepts, and overcoming first-meeting jitters or skepticism about abstinence. Nathan shares practical tips for mental health support, addressing medication concerns, romantic distractions, and outgrowing meetings.
Why watch? Get real insights into group dynamics and mental health benefits of support groups. Subscribe for more recovery stories! Share your recovery journey below!
Chapters:
00:00 "Addiction, Connection, and Group Growth"
04:02 Overcoming Fear in Group Settings
06:34 Understanding 'Higher Power' Concepts
11:13 Navigating Recovery and Drug Replacement
16:24 Gender-Specific Support Meetings
18:33 "Recovery Requires Commitment"
23:02 Coping Strategies for Tough Times
23:42 Support Meetings Reduce Withdrawal Shame
27:21 "Remove Shame from Addiction"
32:36 Challenges of Post-Covid Smart Recovery
34:09 Men's Recovery Support Experience
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