Addiction and Trauma

Society paints addiction as an individual character flaw, pointing the blame solely on the person who is experiencing the addiction. However, addiction is much more nuanced than that. Especially since we live in a highly dysregulated world, addiction should be expected. Trying to function in society while needing to dissociate has become a part of our collective culture. Since our nervous systems are on overdrive with the amount of sensory overload that is thrown our way, coupled with unresolved personal and collective trauma, finding ways to regulate the nervous system can become a means for survival. So, in that sentiment, addiction is far more than an individual character flaw, it's a systemic issue, which should be part of the conversation.   In today's episode, co-host Elisabeth Kristoff gives her personal account of dealing with addiction and mental health issues, and how Applied Neurology helped in her healing journey. Elisabeth goes over how addiction played out in her life as well as what happens to the nervous system and brain at a neurological level when dealing with addiction. Although alcohol helps to depress the nervous system, the trauma that is being dampened in that moment still lives in the body and needs a way out. After many hospital visits, Elisabeth is now in sobriety and able to tell her story to help others who are in the same place as she used to be to heal from their trauma and addiction.   Tune in for a vulnerable conversation about what addiction really means on a personal and neurological level as well as tools that could help in coming out of addiction and into sobriety. Topics discussed in this episode:   What is addiction really The protective nature of addiction Why we get stuck in addictive behaviors Difference between dependence and addiction Elisabeth's addiction journey The connection between alcohol and food addiction The neurology of addiction Addiction as a spectrum The areas of the brain that are driving addictive behaviors What is the celiac plexus and its role in addiction How we live in a dysregulated society How Applied Neurology and somatics helped How socioeconomic status and race play a role in addiction Addiction as a nervous system blanket   Interested in becoming a Neurosomatic Intelligence Coach please visit  www.neurosomaticintelligence.com    Head to https://calendly.com/traumarewired/consultation for a consultation to identify trauma responses in your own life and learn how to train your nervous system to move out of behaviors that aren't serving you!   Work with Jennifer:     https://linktr.ee/traumarewired   FREE 1 Year Supply of Vitamin D + 5 Travel Packs from Athletic Greens when you use   My exclusive offer: www.athleticgreens.com/rewired Work with Elisabeth:   Get in on Elisabeth's exclusive Free Video Training - her proven step-by-step system to ZAP stress, RESOLVE anxiety, STOP pain, DROP unwanted behaviors and MAGNIFY clarity and focus.    It's easier than you think. If you can watch a video, you can heal your nervous system.    Go here to get your free videos now:    https://brainbased-wellness.com/register/free-subscription/