In this episode of "Thrive While Loving an Addict," host KL Wells welcomes Melissa Engle, co-owner and executive vice president of Healing Springs Ranch. Melissa, with nearly 40 years of experience in addiction and mental health, discusses the complexities of addiction, defining it as a "pervasive pattern of avoiding emotional pain." She emphasizes the link between trauma and addiction, advocating for a compassionate approach to understanding and supporting loved ones. Melissa also highlights the importance of emotional fitness and resilience, encouraging families to address underlying pain and foster open, supportive environments for recovery.

•  Complexities of addiction and its emotional underpinnings
• The connection between trauma and addiction
• Definition of addiction as a pattern of avoiding emotional pain
• Importance of addressing underlying emotional issues in recovery
• Role of family members in supporting loved ones with addiction
• Reframing addiction as a response to pain rather than a moral failing
• The significance of emotional expression and connection in recovery
• Challenges faced by families dealing with repeated relapses
• Stigma and shame associated with addiction and its impact on families
• The potential for growth and healing through understanding and compassion

• How do you unlock the key to get to what the root cause, the real pain is for people?
• How do you loop the family in in a way that they understand what's really going on here?
• How does the family or friends navigate when it's they've been through 12 rehabs?
• If there is a message that you would want families to absolutely hear and absorb, what would that be?

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