Description

Episode Overview

In this episode of You Keep Me Sane, Aileen and Julie take a deep dive into the concept of addiction—not just in the traditional sense of substance abuse but in the broader context of human behavior. Drawing inspiration from Gabor Maté’s work, they explore addiction as a response to pain rather than a failure of willpower. From sugar and shopping to busyness and technology, they examine the ways addiction manifests in everyday life and how it connects to unresolved trauma.

• Redefining Addiction: It’s more than just drugs or alcohol—work, shopping, and screens can also be addictive.
• The Root of Addiction: It’s a way to escape deep-seated pain or trauma, not a lack of willpower.
• Personal Journeys: Aileen shares her struggles with sugar, while Julie explores how busyness became her coping mechanism.
• The Dopamine Cycle: Why our brains crave quick relief, even when it harms us.
• Breaking the Cycle: True recovery starts with addressing the root cause, not just stopping the habit.
• Healing Approaches: Self-awareness, mindfulness, and finding support systems are key to overcoming addiction.

Listener Takeaways

• Addiction isn’t about weakness—it’s a way of coping.
• Judgment doesn’t help—compassion and understanding do.
• Small, consistent steps can help break the cycle.
• Healing requires addressing why we turn to addictive behaviors.

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Sources & Further Reading

1. Gabor Maté, M.D.
   • In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters with Addiction (2008)
   • When the Body Says No: The Cost of Hidden Stress (2003)
   • The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness, and Healing in a Toxic Culture (2022)
2. Van der Kolk, B. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma

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Hosts: Aileen Harvey & Julie Fahy

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Disclaimer:

Remember, we’re two friends sharing our personal experiences and discussing everyday challenges. We’re not qualified coaches or therapists, and our content is for general information and supportive conversation only. If you need professional help, please seek advice from a licensed therapist.