The fear of disappearing often masks a deeper fear of death, which many people, including those with addictions, grapple with.

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

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.

Addiction often stems from emotional regulation; people seek substances or activities to escape feelings of emptiness or anxiety.

People often have a spiritual relationship with substances, using them to feel connected or whole, which complicates their recovery process.

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.

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

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