Addiction or Biologically Screwed? | The Gaslit Truth Podcast with Dr Teralyn Sell and Therapist Jenn Schmitz

Send us Fan MailForget the “born an addict” script. We dig into why the broken-brain narrative persists, where the DSM and twin-study talking points get overextended, and how neuroadaptation—not destiny—explains the very real deficits measured after substance use. From dopamine to GABA and glutamate, we unpack what’s actually happening in the brain, why SSRIs often miss the mark, and how a smarter plan uses testing, targeted nutrition, and careful deprescribing to reduce cravings and restore balance.We share what we see in practice with high-functioning drinkers and people who’ve cycled through rehab: sugar-laden menus, labels that overshadow stories, and protocols that ignore gut health while expecting “willpower” to do the heavy lifting. Instead, we walk through the basics that move the needle—protein-forward meals, mineral repletion, amino acids like L-tyrosine, 5-HTP, and NAC, plus sleep, sunlight, movement, and simple breath work to rebuild prefrontal control. We also explore how psychiatric meds and stimulants can extend or worsen dysregulation, and why a slow, hyperbolic taper can make quitting alcohol or other substances dramatically easier.This is an invitation to replace white-knuckling with nourishment and skills. We talk culture, trauma, stress, and environment without confusing correlation for causation, and we show how identity shifts from “I am broken” to “I can rebuild” change outcomes. If you’ve been told you’ll fight your genes forever, come hear a different path—one that treats biology with precision and respects the human behind the data.If this conversation put words to something you’ve felt, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review. Want help getting off psychiatric meds safely? Email thegaslit truthpodcast at gmail.com and let’s get you started.We're recruiting for a first-of-its-kind psychiatric medication withdrawal research study. If you've experienced psychiatric medication withdrawal, you may be eligible to participate.  Email [email protected] to learn more.  Savorista Coffee is offering our listeners 25% off their premium craft decaf and half caf blends with bold flavors, ethically sourced beans, and natural decaffeination. Small-batch roasted for exceptional taste. EUse promo code GASLIT at checkout! https://savorista.com/discount/GASLIT 💊 Ready to Deprescribe Your Psych Meds?Psych meds have harmed us—and we’re not just survivors, we’re deeply educated in psychopharmacology, psychology, and nutrition. As hosts of The Gaslit Truth Podcast, we guide people safely off psychiatric medications with strategies grounded in science and brain health🔥 You’ve been harmed. You’ve been dismissed. It’s time to take your brain back—with guidance from people who’ve been there and know their stuff.Support the showAre you tired of being gaslit and want to DEEP THROAT some more truth? We want to hear from you!  Message us your gaslit stories at [email protected] you are at it, Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube @thegaslittruthpodcast.  Be sure to Hit that subscribe button and get alerts for more episodes! Thanks for listening!Follow Us individually atDr. Teralyn:Instagram @Dr_TeralynFacebook  @DrTeralynTik Tok @Dr_TeralynTherapist Jenn: Instagram @TherapistJenTikTok @Jenn.Schmitz