Opiate Addiction, the grace of God, and the path to recovery - Alisha's story - Episode 35 - The Addict's Advocate

In this episode of The Addict's Advocate, host Dusty Dean speaks with Alisha from Silicon Valley Recovery about her personal journey through addiction and recovery. Alisha shares her experiences with prescription medication addiction, the impact of her mother's illness, and the importance of support systems in recovery. They discuss the significance of daily routines, the 12-step program, and relapse challenges. Alisha emphasizes the need for comprehensive aftercare and the connection between addiction and mental health, encouraging listeners to seek help and support.   Takeaways

• Alisha's addiction began with prescription medication after surgery.
• Support systems are crucial for recovery success.
• Triggers can include music, people, and certain environments.
• Daily routines and practices like prayer and meditation help maintain sobriety.
• The 12-step program is a valuable tool for many in recovery.
• Relapse can often stem from complacency and fear.
• Mental health issues often accompany addiction and need to be addressed.
• Aftercare is essential for long-term recovery success.
• Connection with others in recovery can provide vital support.
• Asking for help is a critical step in the recovery process.

  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Recovery and Personal Stories 02:06 Alicia's Journey: From Addiction to Recovery 08:30 The Role of Support Systems in Recovery 10:33 Understanding the Roots of Addiction 15:03 The Struggle of Acceptance and Surrender 17:02 Transforming Pain into Purpose 21:29 Navigating Triggers and Daily Challenges 28:06 Finding Peace and Daily Practices for Recovery 29:09 Alternative Paths to Sobriety 30:15 The Depth of Recovery 31:56 Mistakes Leading to Relapse 34:36 The Role of Self-Will in Recovery 38:49 Support Systems and Aftercare Plans 42:50 Insurance and Addiction Treatment 44:25 The Cycle of Addiction and Mental Health 47:31 Approaching Loved Ones with Compassion 49:36 The Importance of Safe Detox 51:46 Grieving the Loss of Substances