EP 1: 32 Mastering the Art of Solitude with Dan
Explicit content warning
10/03/24 • 65 min
Supplementary Study Guide: https://www.drdallasbragg.com/newsletters/blog/posts/loneliness-is-your-best-recovery-friend
I really enjoyed this conversation with Dan, a former Methamphetamine addict whose story is very similar to my own. Yet, he provides so many unique perspectives. In this conversation, Dan discusses how he was able to maintain a high-functioning life while using meth and the moment of clarity that led him to seek help. Dan explores the underlying reasons for his addiction, including a fear of feeling emotions and a deep sense of loneliness. He emphasizes the importance of therapy and learning to understand and express emotions as part of the recovery process. Dan also shares his journey of having sober sex after meth addiction and the challenges and rewards that come with it. He recommends several books, including 'Man's Search for Meaning,' 'The Four Agreements,' 'The Velvet Rage,' and 'The Power of Now.'
Takeaways
- Addiction can affect anyone, regardless of their external appearance or success in life.
- Recognizing and acknowledging the problem is the first step towards recovery.
- Emotional awareness and understanding can help in overcoming addiction.
- Loneliness and feelings of inadequacy can contribute to addiction and should be addressed in the recovery process. Using drugs to cope with loneliness only provides temporary relief and ultimately leads to a deeper sense of loneliness and emptiness.
- In sobriety, building meaningful connections and relationships takes time and effort, but the rewards are more solid and fulfilling.
- Practicing being lonely involves acknowledging and accepting the feeling without judgment, reminding oneself that it won't last forever, and taking steps to reconnect with others when ready.
- Sober sex can be a vulnerable and rewarding experience, and open communication with partners is essential for healing and growth.
- Spirituality is about being present in the moment and understanding that obstacles and struggles are part of the human experience and contribute to personal growth.
- Recommended books for recovery include 'Man's Search for Meaning,' 'The Four Agreements,' 'The Power of Now,' and 'The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions.'
The AfterMeth:
Join our Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theaftermeth/
Dr. Dallas Bragg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drdallasbragg
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdallasbragg/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drdallasbragg
YouTube: The Aftermeth Podcast
X: https://twitter.com/Drdallasbragg
Free online course to End the Relapse Cycle: https://www.drdallasbragg.com/offers/e7c2Eo22/checkout
Supplementary Study Guide: https://www.drdallasbragg.com/newsletters/blog/posts/loneliness-is-your-best-recovery-friend
I really enjoyed this conversation with Dan, a former Methamphetamine addict whose story is very similar to my own. Yet, he provides so many unique perspectives. In this conversation, Dan discusses how he was able to maintain a high-functioning life while using meth and the moment of clarity that led him to seek help. Dan explores the underlying reasons for his addiction, including a fear of feeling emotions and a deep sense of loneliness. He emphasizes the importance of therapy and learning to understand and express emotions as part of the recovery process. Dan also shares his journey of having sober sex after meth addiction and the challenges and rewards that come with it. He recommends several books, including 'Man's Search for Meaning,' 'The Four Agreements,' 'The Velvet Rage,' and 'The Power of Now.'
Takeaways
- Addiction can affect anyone, regardless of their external appearance or success in life.
- Recognizing and acknowledging the problem is the first step towards recovery.
- Emotional awareness and understanding can help in overcoming addiction.
- Loneliness and feelings of inadequacy can contribute to addiction and should be addressed in the recovery process. Using drugs to cope with loneliness only provides temporary relief and ultimately leads to a deeper sense of loneliness and emptiness.
- In sobriety, building meaningful connections and relationships takes time and effort, but the rewards are more solid and fulfilling.
- Practicing being lonely involves acknowledging and accepting the feeling without judgment, reminding oneself that it won't last forever, and taking steps to reconnect with others when ready.
- Sober sex can be a vulnerable and rewarding experience, and open communication with partners is essential for healing and growth.
- Spirituality is about being present in the moment and understanding that obstacles and struggles are part of the human experience and contribute to personal growth.
- Recommended books for recovery include 'Man's Search for Meaning,' 'The Four Agreements,' 'The Power of Now,' and 'The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions.'
The AfterMeth:
Join our Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theaftermeth/
Dr. Dallas Bragg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drdallasbragg
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdallasbragg/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drdallasbragg
YouTube: The Aftermeth Podcast
X: https://twitter.com/Drdallasbragg
Free online course to End the Relapse Cycle: https://www.drdallasbragg.com/offers/e7c2Eo22/checkout
Previous Episode
EP 1:31 I'm Here, I'm Queer, I'm Sober! with Phil
Supplemental Study Guide: https://www.drdallasbragg.com/newsletters/blog/posts/i-m-here-i-m-queer-i-m-sober
Phil Brunke is a new friend of mine who I met in a Facebook group called "Here, Queer. Sober" (link found below). In this episode of the AfterMeth I talk with Phil, who is a recovering crystal meth addict. We discuss his story, the pressures faced by gay men, the journey to sobriety, and the importance of community support. Phil shares the turning point that led him to seek help, and the challenges of navigating life after rehab. We talk about inclusive recovery spaces and the importance of recognizing that individuals are more than just their sexual identities.
Here Queer Sober Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/share/g/ZXeogqz53Gyu112Z/
Connect with Phil here:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083455777244
The AfterMeth:
Join our Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theaftermeth/
Dr. Dallas Bragg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drdallasbragg
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdallasbragg/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drdallasbragg
YouTube: The Aftermeth Podcast
X: https://twitter.com/Drdallasbragg
Free online course to End the Relapse Cycle: https://www.drdallasbragg.com/offers/e7c2Eo22/checkout
Next Episode
EP 1:33 Redefining Intimacy Post-Meth with Coach Alex
Supplemental Study Guide: https://www.drdallasbragg.com/intimacy/
I really loved this discussion with Coach Alex Ray, a Queer Intimacy Coach for Queer People. What a much-needed service! We discuss topics such as overcoming religious trauma, practicing intimacy, and the role of OnlyFans in promoting healthy sexuality. Coach Alex shares his personal journey of self-acceptance and how he helps queer individuals navigate dating, relationships, and sex. They also touch on the importance of mindful masturbation and creating emotional connections. The conversation highlights the need for authentic connection and self-confidence in the LGBTQ+ community.
Find Alex Here:
instagram.com/coachalexray
coachalexray.com
coachalexray.com/links
The AfterMeth:
Join our Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theaftermeth/
Dr. Dallas Bragg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drdallasbragg
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdallasbragg/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drdallasbragg
YouTube: The Aftermeth Podcast
X: https://twitter.com/Drdallasbragg
Free online course to End the Relapse Cycle: https://www.drdallasbragg.com/offers/e7c2Eo22/checkout
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