Denial offers strong opposition to the caregiver trying to save the life of their suffering addict or alcoholic, and the situation can seem impossible. Can you help when they refuse to say, “I’m an alcoholic?” Can they be treated without admitting, “yes, I’m an addict?” Are they using more excessively? Do they say, “That’s just who I am,” while nursing hangover after hangover? Do they refute your concerns with “I can stop anytime I want,” even though they don’t? What about you, caregiver? Is it hard to believe your loved one is truly an addict or alcoholic?

In this episode, Supporting Sobriety co-hosts Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick speak with Amber Hollingsworth, who calls on her decades of experience working with caregiving families to answer the demanding questions about denial in recovery. If you believe your child, sibling, parent, or S/O is stricken with the disease of addiction, please listen. Amber has lived addiction her whole life, growing up in an addicted family and as a professional caregiver for decades. She also has a YouTube channel called Put the Shovel Down, which hits the disease of addiction from all sides.

Thank you for listening. Please like, subscribe, and rate.

Resources:

Join the Supporting Sobriety community @sobriety_pod on X or Instagram.  
Al-Anon.org
aa.intergroup.org/meetings, Meetings (virtual-na.org)
Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255 (24/7)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick delve into the delicate balance between addicts responsibly using prescription drugs and the steps caretakers can take to prevent relapse when their loved ones are prescribed medication. Drawing from their own experiences with medications as barriers to recovery, Matt and Ryan emphasize the importance of communication between caregivers and addicts, especially when legal prescriptions are necessary. They highlight the significance of honesty and accountability in preventing relapse and easing the pressure on loved ones.

Joining The Show:
Dr. Michael LaRosa from the Salvation Army joins the discussion. With his extensive experience as the clinical director for Harbor Light in Indianapolis, Dr. LaRosa offers valuable insights into helping individuals enter recovery.

Timestamps and Discussions:

15:40 - 16:00 - Introduction to Dr. LaRosa: 

16:08 - 17:03 - Should Addicts Take Prescribed Opiates? 

Dr. LaRosa weighs in on the complexities of addicts taking medications that could potentially lead to relapse.

17:18 - 19:55 - Recovery as a Collaborative Process: 

Dr. LaRosa emphasizes the importance of collaboration between doctors and addicts in moving forward with recovery.

20:05 - 21:47 - Communicating with Caretakers: 

The importance of open communication and teamwork between addicts and caretakers in managing medication and preventing relapse is discussed.

22:15 - 23:49 - Managing Refills and Alternative Solutions: 

Dr. LaRosa shares his approach to addressing refills and suggests healthy alternatives to medication.

24:40 - 26:00 - Over-the-Counter Medications and Narcotics: 

The potential risks associated with over-the-counter medications and the importance of moderation are highlighted.

26:16 - 28:32 - Recognizing Indicators of Relapse: 
The signs indicating a potential relapse and the role of communication and pain in motivating recovery are explored.

28:45 - 30:02 - Addressing the Crisis: 

Dr. LaRosa discusses the challenges of the fentanyl crisis and the need for vigilance in combating addiction.

30:15 - 31:25 - The Journey of Recovery: 

The importance of a God-centered attitude and giving back in the recovery journey is emphasized.

Resources: 

Social  X/Insta: @sobriety_pod, like us and subscribe. 

Al-Anon.org

aa.intergroup.org/meetings, Meetings (virtual-na.org)

Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255 (24/7)

Like us and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick explore how regular exercise affects individuals caring for loved ones grappling with addiction. The perks they discussed include feeling less stressed, dealing with problems better, and having a good way to let off steam. Matt talks about his path to fitness and how it changed him during three years of getting better. Ryan talks about how going for runs has helped him in his recovery journey.

Joining The Show:

Guest: Leisa Hart from leisahart.com, known for her role in Warner Brothers' Buns of Steel fitness. Leisa's lifestyle coach, workout guru, and motivational speaker background is highlighted. Notable achievements: Over $1 billion in sales and 6 million units sold.

Timestamps and Discussions:

11:49 - 12:09: Introduction to Leisa's Expertise

Leisa's background and expertise were unveiled.

12:10 - 14:17: Navigating Addiction: Leisa's Personal Journey

Insights into Leisa's family struggles with addiction and its impact on her fitness path.

16:10 - 18:30: Prioritizing Self-Care: The Vitality of Physical Activity

Leisa underscores self-care's significance for caregivers and advocates staying active amidst adversity.

18:45 - 23:01: Empowering Your Fitness Journey: Taking the First Steps

Leisa motivates listeners to embark on their fitness voyage, swapping "dope for dopamine."

23:53 - 25:59: Exercise as Therapy: Unveiling Mental Health Benefits

Leisa explores the profound psychological connections between exercise and mental well-being, offering caregiver strategies.

26:30 - 27:38: Unlocking Wellness: The Essential Role of Sleep

Leisa stresses the criticality of quality sleep for holistic health.

27:48 - 29:15: Farewell Reflections: Embracing Fitness and Resources

Leisa concludes with a call to action, urging listeners to initiate simple fitness routines and utilize available support.

Resources: 

Leisa Hart

Website: LeisaHart.com

Matt

Social: X/Insta

Like us and subscribe.

Ryan

Al-Anon

AA Meetings (Virtual Meetings: virtual-na.org)

Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255 (24/7)

Like us and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick dive into one of the toughest situations families face when dealing with addiction: what to do when a loved one gets arrested. They share their own experiences and offer hope for those navigating the legal system amidst addiction struggles.

Joining the Show:
Guest: Judge Brandi Foster Kirkendall, Johnson County, Indiana.
Judge Brandi, a respected figure in the legal community, oversees treatment courts in Johnson County. She shares insights into navigating the legal process when a loved one faces addiction-related legal issues.

Timestamps and Discussions: 

13:11 - 15:18 - Introduction to Judge Brandi
Judge Brandi explains what happens after an arrest, emphasizing the importance of understanding probable cause and the seriousness of the offense.

15:34 - 17:45 - Is your loved one eligible for a lighter sentence?
Judge Brandi discusses the shift towards treatment-focused approaches and illuminates Johnson County's treatment courts and eligibility criteria.

18:00 - 21:09 - Why so many treatment courts?
Judge Brandi highlights the increasing demand for treatment courts and the community's growing awareness of their benefits.

22:13 - 23:12 - Judge Brandi talks about judging a defendant's regret
Emphasizing the significance of actions over words, Judge Brandi discusses her approach to assessing a defendant's commitment to change.

23:33 - 26:15 - Brandi sometimes talks to loved ones.
Judge Brandi recognizes the vital role of family support and discusses the importance of involving loved ones in treatment court programs.

27:04 - 28:00 - There is a path to recovery if the addict wants it.
Judge Brandi underscores the importance of willingness to achieve recovery and evaluates progress based on tangible results.

28:30 - 32:55 - How long does it take to resolve court cases?

Judge Brandi provides insights into the timeline of resolving court cases and the factors influencing case duration.

Resources: 

Matt: Social  X/Insta: @sobriety_pod, like us and subscribe.

Ryan: aa.intergroup.org/meetings, Meetings (virtual-na.org)

Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255 (24/7)

Al-Anon.org

Like us and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick reflect on their milestones and discuss their recovery journey. The guys acknowledge the well-documented ups and downs of recovery, especially for those supporting loved ones through it. 

Joining the Show

Kelly Pope is a dedicated mother who has stayed steadfast in her support for her son's journey toward recovery. Despite numerous challenges, Kelly's unwavering commitment has been a shining light of hope for her son, providing strength and encouragement during difficult times.

Time Stamps and Discussions:

14:24 - 14:37 - Introduction to Kelly Pope

Introducing Kelly Pope and her role in her son's recovery journey.

14:46 - 18:09 - Kelly's son's lowest point

Kelly recounts her son's lowest point in his struggle with addiction.

Discusses her trust in treatment experts and her son's responsibility for his recovery.

She shares the emotional highs and lows she experienced during this time.

 

18:42 - 22:11 - Impact of relapse on the family

Describes the toll of relapse on a family, especially in the case of Kelly's son, who is one of four siblings.

Despite setbacks, Kelly never lost faith and discusses the physical challenges she endured.

She mentions having her grandchildren over and views them as a blessing. 

 

21:56 - 24:29 - Rebuilding trust

Emphasizes the importance of rebuilding trust gradually.

She shares her experience of not giving her son money but supporting him in other ways.

Talks about the process of earning back trust through communication and action steps.

 

25:02 - 26:56 - Lifestyle changes

Discusses the need for lifestyle adjustments, such as changing locks and gradually reintroducing privileges.

She shared a moment of joy when her son felt like himself again during a fishing trip.

 

27:06 - 28:21 - Navigating emotional challenges

Reflects on navigating emotional ups and downs without seeking professional help.

Discusses relying on prayer and support from friends while maintaining perseverance.

 

30:15 - Kelly's message of hope

It ends with Kelly's heartfelt message of love and hopes for her son's recovery.

 

Resources: 

Ryan: aa.intergroup.org/meetings, Meetings (virtual-na.org)

Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255 (24/7)

Al-Anon.org

Like us and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick reflect on the guilt and shame of their loved ones during active addiction.

The benefits of attending support groups like Al-Anon discussed community, mental health prioritization, and acceptance of the disease.

Recovery communities are essential healing components, offering support and understanding.

Guest:

Terri Stacey, Hall-of-Fame Broadcaster, wife of a recovering alcoholic, shares her story.

 

Time Stamps and Discussions:

12:52 - 13:03 - Introduction to Teri Stacey

13:05 - 14:03 - Unfamiliarity with Alcoholism

Terri's background: unfamiliar with alcoholism, grew up in Knightstown, Indiana.

Early signs of her husband's alcoholism are evident despite her family's abstention from alcohol. 

14:15 - 15:15 - Early Signs of Alcoholism

Terri recalls early signs of her husband's drinking habits, emotional toll evident.

15:27 - 15:45 - Growing Concerns

Growing concerns about her husband's frequent visits to the bar.

16:07 - 18:02 - Denial and Escape

Terri's denial about her husband's drinking 

18:24 - 18:50 -  Work as Refuge

Work as an escape from her tumultuous personal life.

19:14 - 20:31 - Acknowledgment and Emotional Journey

Husband's acknowledgment of his drinking problem Terri's emotional journey alongside him.

20:43 - 22:15 - Lack of Mental Health Awareness

Lack of mental health awareness and repeated attempts at recovery for her husband.

23:17 - 24:00 - Delay in Seeking Support

Delay in attending Al-Anon meetings, focusing on her husband's recovery process.

24:08 - 25:18 - Realization and Public Revelation

Terri's realization of shared experiences at her first Al-Anon meeting.

25:32 - 26:34 - Public revelation of her struggles through a magazine article.

Acknowledgment of personal work required for recovery. Initial anger towards her husband's recovery journey, realization of her journey.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick delve into the profound realm of spirituality in recovery. They emphasize the importance of finding a higher power in long-term recovery and recognize that spirituality manifests uniquely for each individual. Matt and Ryan share personal insights into understanding spirituality's role in recovery, fostering a supportive environment for spiritual growth, and remaining open-minded to diverse spiritual concepts.

Guest: Ervin Lee from Beer to the Bible Podcast

Ervin Lee, once entrenched in severe alcoholism despite outward success, found redemption and spiritual awakening through rehab. His journey led him to embrace faith and sobriety, and he is now dedicating himself to guiding others through similar struggles. Ervin emphasizes the transformative power of spirituality, utilizing a "spiritual sobriety kit" comprising exercise, prayer, and biblical reflection. He co-founded Hampton Ministries and offered support and guidance to those seeking sobriety and spiritual wellness.

Time Stamps and Discussions:

12:02 - 13:32 -  The First Step in Overcoming Spiritual Hurdles

Introduction to Ervin Lee. Discussion on overcoming hurdles when an addict rejects spiritual concepts. Ervin shares a pivotal moment of empathy from a pastor post-treatment, highlighting empathy as the initial step.

13:50 - 15:30 - Addressing Atheism in Addiction Recovery

Addressing the challenge of conversing with atheists, particularly addicts, Ervin emphasizes honesty and looking beyond oneself for healing. He underscores the external source of healing.

16:00 - 17:23 - The Crucial Role of the Twelve Steps in Any Addiction Recovery

Importance of the twelve steps in recovery, applicable to any addiction. Founders' beliefs and working the steps are deemed crucial for sustainable recovery.

18:04 - 19:25 - Spiritual Work in Recovery Beyond Religious Constructs

Delving into inner turmoil and the significance of spiritual work in recovery. Ervin emphasizes the necessity of developing a relationship with a higher power, distinct from religious institutions.

19:56 - 22:00 -  Redefining Spiritual Concepts for Sobriety

Reconceptualizing God as a relationship rather than a religious construct, Ervin addresses misconceptions, asserts God is love, and advocates vulnerability in belief.

22:36 - 24:00 - Changing Environments and Honest Conversations: Practical Tips for Recovery

Practical tips for altering environments, including nature-based activities and honest conversations with loved ones, to aid recovery.

Resources: 

Our guest was Ervin Lee of Hampton Ministries; find him on X, @ervinlee09. Instagram and Tik Toc, @frombeertothebible.

He’s on YouTube as well.

The Gift of Doubting God | Part 3 (youtube.com)

Matt: Social  X/Insta: @sobriety_pod, like us and subscribe.

Ryan: aa.intergroup.org/meetings, Meetings (virtual-na.org)

Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255 (24/7)

Al-Anon.org

Like us and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick discuss one of the most challenging aspects of dealing with a loved one in active addiction: tough love. Tough love may initially seem harsh, but it can catalyze positive change when executed correctly. Establishing healthy boundaries not only benefits the individual struggling with addiction but also allows caregivers to prioritize their well-being and recovery.

Guest: Dr. Vince Callahan

Dr. Callahan, from The Florida Institute for Neural Discovery, specializes in understanding the impact of dysfunctional family systems on children's growth and development.

With over a decade of research in early life stress and neurological development, Dr. Callahan provides valuable insights into building a tough love strategy.

Time Stamps and Discussions:

Understanding Tough Love (16:27 - 18:33)

Dr. Callahan explains that tough love involves letting the addict hit rock bottom, as it can serve as a wake-up call for change. Tough love is more than just a strategy; it's a process that requires the addict's buy-in for effectiveness.

Collaboration and Buy-In (19:06 - 20:11)

It's essential for the addict to willingly participate in the tough love plan for it to be successful. Tough love serves as motivation for addicts to take responsibility for their actions and seek help.

Tailoring Tough Love (20:35 - 21:15)

Each situation requires a customized approach to tough love, considering the unique circumstances and dynamics. Collaboration between the addict and their loved ones is crucial for progress and recovery.

Seeking Professional Help (21:27 - 22:17)

If tough love alone isn't effective, it's important to encourage the loved one to seek professional assistance. Understanding the underlying reasons for addiction is essential for addressing the root causes rather than just treating symptoms.

Implementing a Comprehensive Plan (23:04 - 25:40)

Understanding family systems and addressing trauma or learned behaviors is fundamental to the healing process. Teamwork and commitment are vital for sticking to a recovery plan, whether it involves attending meetings, practicing abstinence, or seeking therapy.

Connect with Dr. Vince Callahan:

Website: Florida Institute for Neural Discovery - find-fl.com

Twitter: @drvincecallahan

Promote Our Social:

Matt: Follow us on Instagram @sobriety_pod. Remember to like and subscribe!

Ryan: For AA meetings, visit aa.intergroup.org/meetings. Also, check out virtual NA meetings at virtual-na.org.

If you or someone you know needs immediate support, please call the Suicide Prevention Hotline at (800) 273-8255. It's available 24/7.

Visit Al-Anon.org for additional resources and support.

Like and subscribe to our podcast on your preferred platform for more episodes.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 

• Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick discuss the interplay between depression and addiction.
• Depression exacerbates addiction, and untreated depression can lead to relapse.
• Importance of addressing mental health, avoiding substance use for coping, and building support networks.

Today's Guest:

• Marcus Watts, Founder of Alone is a Lie, shares his journey battling depression and alcohol addiction.
• Despite personal losses, Marcus is a beacon of change in his community.
• Marcus emphasizes the significance of a strong recovery program.

Timestamps with Discussions:

13:17 - 13:25 Introduction to Marcus Watts

• Marcus introduces himself and his struggles with depression and alcoholism.

13:36 - 15:39 The Devastation of Losing People Close to Him

• Marcus recounts the profound impact of losing five significant individuals in less than two years.
• Despite having a small circle, the losses were deeply impactful.

15:40 - 16:34 When He Started Drinking

• Marcus shares how his alcohol struggles began during social gatherings and escalated with older peers.

16:54 - 18:24 The Work Never Stops, and Recovery is a Journey

• Even in sobriety, Marcus battles with mental health issues.
• Recognizing the ongoing work required in recovery, Marcus marks September 4, 2017, as his sober date.

18:39 - 19:49 The Turning Point

• Marcus’s turning point came when confronted by the mother of his children about his behavior in bars.
• Determined to change, Marcus embarked on his recovery journey shortly after.

20:15 - 22:14 The Support System is Strong

• Marcus received encouragement from friends and family upon publicly committing to recovery.
• Coach Lloyd and his supportive family played pivotal roles in Marcus's journey.

22:28 - 24:48 The Three Signs Marcus Knew He Was Struggling with Depression

• Marcus identifies key signs of his depression, including reliance on alcohol for coping.

 Resources: 

Marcus Watts can be found on Instagram with the username @alone_isalie.

Matt invites you to follow Social X on Instagram with the handle @sobriety_pod and encourages likes and subscriptions.

Ryan shares resources for meetings at aa.intergroup.org/meetings and virtual-na.org, along with the Suicide Prevention Hotline at (800) 273-8255, available 24/7. Additionally, he suggests visiting Al-Anon.org.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick share personal experiences with potent drugs and the importance of access to Narcan in emergencies.

Today's Guest: 

Joining the Supporting Sobriety Podcast is Bree Baldwin from Overdose Lifeline (overdoselifeline.org), discussing harm reduction efforts and Narcan's role in saving lives.

Discussion Points with Timestamps:

4:09 - 5:05: Understanding Narcan

Ryan explains that Narcan is an opiate-reversing drug, blocking opiate receptors to interrupt the effects of ingested drugs.  Administering Narcan is a challenging experience for the user.

5:30 - 6:33: Narcan as a Miracle Drug

Matt describes Narcan as a miracle drug, emphasizing that no drug user desires to receive it.

8:00 - 13:26: Narcan in Action

Matt and Ryan analyze a video demonstrating deputies saving a man's life with Narcan, highlighting the calm and confident response of first responders.

15:47 - 15:58: Introduction to Bree Baldwin

16:15 - 17:23: Basics of Narcan

Baldwin explains what Narcan is, its importance, and how it's administered to patients.

17:37 - 18:40: Patient Response to Narcan

Baldwin discusses how patients typically respond to Narcan within 2-3 minutes and the potential need for additional doses.

19:00 - 20:13: Providing Hope through Overdose Lifeline

Overdose Lifeline offers education, resources, and advocacy to support families affected by substance use disorder.

20:45 - 21:05: Erasing Stigma Around Narcan

Baldwin highlights the challenge of erasing stigma and educating people about the helpfulness of Narcan.

21:10 - 22:00: Recognizing Overdose Signs

Signs and symptoms of overdose vary but are recognizable, enabling prompt Narcan administration to save lives potentially.

.22:30 - 23:13: Limitations and Emerging Drugs

Baldwin discusses emerging drugs that Narcan may not work for and emphasizes the importance of rescue breathing in saving lives.

26:35: Narcan and Harm Reduction

Baldwin stresses Narcan's role in harm reduction and addressing the disease of addiction.

Resources:

Visit Overdose Lifeline's website, overdoselifeline.org, or follow @overdoselifelin on social media.

Please find us on social media at @sobriety_pod on X and Insta. Remember to like and subscribe.

Access virtual meetings at aa.intergroup.org/meetings or visit virtual-na.org. For immediate support, call the Suicide Prevention Hotline at (800) 273-8255, available 24/7.

Explore support resources at Al-Anon.org.

Like and subscribe to our podcast on your preferred platform.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.