To effectively address addiction, it's important to help individuals recognize when their state is shifting towards substance use, allowing for intervention before the behavior becomes inevitable. This requires a deep understanding of their mental and emotional states.

Addiction is not the problem; it's the solution to an underlying stressor. People often turn to substances or behaviors to escape discomfort or pain.

The key to overcoming any addiction is to acknowledge the problem, seek community support, and develop healthier coping mechanisms, as addiction often serves as a solution to discomfort or stress but becomes problematic when it takes on a life of its own, leading to further trauma and stress.

Addiction disrupts the brain's homeostatic circuits, leading to a narrow focus on substances like drugs, while healthy attachments to loved ones support emotional well-being.

Healing involves addressing the pain and shame that drive addiction, allowing individuals to explore their fears and find healthier coping mechanisms.

Those affected by addiction need science-based treatment, compassion, and a shift in societal perception to view addiction as a health issue rather than a moral failing. I think about how much time I lost with people I loved because of the tough love model, where I thought I shouldn't see them until they stopped using or drinking. You miss out on precious moments that you can't get back.

The relationship between trauma and addiction is complex; trauma can lead to stress, which drives individuals to seek relief through addictive behaviors.

To help someone in recovery, we need to understand their biological, psychological, and social factors to create a clear picture of their situation.

At the heart of addiction and a challenged life is a lack of distress tolerance, which is crucial for managing life's challenges effectively.