The Hidden Roots of Addiction: Shame, Control & Surrender | Carolyn Dunegan, LCDC

In this foundational episode of our addiction series, we sit down with addiction expert Carolyn Dunegan, LCDC, to explore what addiction really is, why it’s so rooted in shame and isolation, and what true recovery actually requires.This conversation goes far beyond substances alone. We discuss the deeper emotional and spiritual dynamics underneath addiction, including secrecy, self-deception, ego, shame, control, and the struggle to ask for help.Whether you are personally struggling, love someone who is, or simply want to understand addiction at a deeper level, this episode offers powerful insight, compassion, and hope.00:00 – Welcome & Introduction 01:30 – What actually defines an addiction?02:07 – Consequences, immaturity, and substances replacing relationships10:00 – Isolation, secrecy, and the progression of addiction11:10 – Why lying becomes part of addiction14:00 – Why family systems matter in recovery38:50 – The stages of getting sober18:33 – “I can fix this myself” — the first stage of addiction recovery19:22 – Why addicts create rules and bargains around substances26:00 – Shame, self-hatred, and the emotional roots of addiction35:30 – The difference between ego and self-esteem35:00 – Why surrender and accountability are essential for healing43:33 – Confession, honesty, and “walking in the light”44:00 – Final thoughts: why truth creates freedom49:00 – Preview of the next addiction episodeKey Topics:• Addiction and recovery• Alcohol and substance abuse• Shame and self-hatred• Accountability and healing• Christian counseling perspectives• 12-step recovery insights• Family systems and addiction• Emotional health and trauma• Truth, honesty, and freedom#AddictionRecovery #MentalHealth #ChristianCounseling #RecoveryJourney #SoulSensePodcast #AddictionHelp #Healing #SamaritansWell👍🔔 If this conversation touched your heart, please like, subscribe, and share. We'd love to hear what part of this episode hit home for you — comment below or send us a message! Your support helps us bring more meaningful conversations to light. We also value your feedback — please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.For more information on counseling and resources visit samaritanswell.com or email us at [email protected]. ✅ Stay connected:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samaritanswell/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samaritanswelldallaSLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/samaritan%E2%80%99s-well/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samaritanswellcounseling?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc🎁 Free Relationship "Talk Time" Guide: https://samaritanswell.thinkific.com/products/digital_downloads/talk-time-guideMusic from Uppbeat:https://uppbeat.io/t/sky-toes/featherlight | License code: GAUXTZHWAYJROEFLhttps://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/all-i-need | License code: LQFV9XYEQIWRJLNT