Author Mitch Leff talks about his book "My Addiction, My Superpower"
TLDRIn this insightful discussion, the guest shares their journey of overcoming addiction, highlighting the importance of discipline and routine in maintaining sobriety. They outline three stages of relapse: emotional, mental, and physical, emphasizing the need for vigilance in recognizing these signs. The conversation underscores the value of support systems, therapy, and self-help strategies, offering hope and encouragement for those battling substance abuse.
Takeaways
- 📚 The guest has written a book about their personal struggles with addiction, combining memoir and self-help elements.
- 🛡️ The book was written out of necessity to share the author's experiences and to reach out to others dealing with similar issues.
- 🔄 The author identifies three stages of relapse: emotional, mental, and physical, emphasizing the importance of recognizing these signs early.
- 💔 Emotional relapse often starts with changes in mood, relationships, and the environment, which can lead to a breakdown in discipline and routine.
- 🧠 Mental relapse involves making excuses and rationalizing substance use, which can be a sign of internal conflict and justification for past behaviors.
- 🏥 The author suggests that maintaining a support system, such as therapy and good company, is crucial for preventing relapse and maintaining sobriety.
- 📈 The physical relapse is the actual act of returning to substance use, and the author encourages immediate re-engagement with recovery programs.
- 📖 The book is expected to be a staple in bookstores like Barnes & Noble, indicating its potential impact and reach.
- 🎉 The guest expresses gratitude for their sobriety and the opportunity to share their story, highlighting the importance of support and community.
- 📞 The importance of reaching out to therapists and support groups as soon as a relapse is recognized is emphasized for quick recovery.
- 🌟 The author's message is one of hope and resilience, encouraging others to continue their journey towards recovery.
Q & A
What is the main purpose of the book mentioned in the transcript?
-The main purpose of the book is to share the author's personal struggles and experiences with addiction, serving as both a memoir and a self-help guide to offer support and advice to others dealing with similar issues.
How does the author describe the process of relapse?
-The author describes relapse as having three stages: emotional, mental, and physical. Each stage involves different aspects of the individual's life and thought processes, leading to a potential relapse into substance abuse.
What are some early signs of emotional relapse mentioned in the transcript?
-Early signs of emotional relapse include changes in behavior, such as hanging out with different people, places, and things, and a lack of discipline in maintaining a routine, which can be crucial for maintaining sobriety.
What does the author suggest as a common mental relapse excuse?
-A common mental relapse excuse mentioned is making excuses like being too young to be sober, blaming external factors like relationships or location, and telling oneself lies to justify the return to drinking or drug use.
How does the author address the physical relapse stage?
-The author acknowledges that physical relapse, where the individual starts using substances again, is a sad reality. They emphasize that it's okay if it happens and the best course of action is to pick up where one left off, such as returning to 12-step meetings or therapy.
What is the importance of having a support system in recovery, according to the transcript?
-Having a support system is crucial in recovery as it provides the individual with the necessary help and encouragement to return to their recovery practices and maintain sobriety, especially in the event of a relapse.
What is the significance of the phrase 'birds fly, fish swim, and attics use' mentioned by the author?
-The phrase is used to normalize the idea that relapses can happen, just as natural behaviors are inherent to certain creatures. It serves as a reminder that it's not the end of the world if a relapse occurs, and one should continue with their recovery process.
How does the author suggest dealing with the emotional stage of relapse?
-The author suggests being disciplined with routines, surrounding oneself with positive influences, and maintaining regular therapy sessions to prevent emotional relapse.
What advice does the author give for maintaining mental sobriety?
-The author advises against making excuses and engaging in self-deception, emphasizing the importance of staying truthful and focused on the path of recovery.
Where can the book be found for purchase?
-The book can be found at Barnes & Noble and other bookstores, as mentioned in the transcript.
What does the author say about the importance of continuing recovery practices after a relapse?
-The author stresses the importance of resuming recovery practices immediately after a relapse, such as attending 12-step meetings or therapy, to get back on track with sobriety.
Outlines
📚 Overcoming Addiction: A Memoir and Self-Help Journey
This paragraph introduces Amy, who discusses her struggles with addiction and her decision to write a book about her experiences. The book serves as a memoir and self-help guide, aiming to share her story and provide support for others. Amy emphasizes the necessity of the book, which was born out of her own need to share her message and help others understand the stages of relapse.
🔄 The Three Stages of Relapse
Amy outlines the three stages of relapse: emotional, mental, and physical. She explains that the emotional stage often starts with changes in mood and can be triggered by various factors. The mental stage involves making excuses and rationalizing substance use, while the physical stage is the actual return to using substances. Amy stresses the importance of recognizing these stages and seeking support to prevent relapse.
🛡️ Building a Support System
Amy discusses the importance of maintaining a disciplined routine and surrounding oneself with supportive people during recovery. She highlights the dangers of associating with negative influences and the benefits of therapy and support groups. She also emphasizes the need to be vigilant about potential triggers and to return to recovery practices immediately if relapse occurs.
📖 Book as a Recovery Resource
Amy concludes by mentioning the book's potential to become a staple in Barnes & Noble and its role in providing guidance and support for those in recovery. She thanks her guest for sharing their experience and congratulates them on their sobriety, reinforcing the message that recovery is possible with the right support system in place.
Mindmap
Keywords
💡Superpower
💡Addiction
💡Recovery
💡Mental Health
💡Relapse
💡Disciplined Routine
💡Support System
💡Therapy
💡12-Step Meetings
💡Self-Help
Highlights
The book is a memoir and self-help guide, sharing personal experiences with addiction.
The author wrote the book out of necessity, to convey a message and help others.
There are three stages of relapse: emotional, mental, and physical.
Emotional relapse involves changes in mood and discipline, as well as the influence of people, places, and things.
Mental relapse is characterized by making excuses and telling oneself lies to justify substance use.
Physical relapse is the act of returning to substance use, such as drinking or drug use.
It's important to maintain a disciplined routine and surround oneself with supportive people for sobriety.
Therapy and support groups are crucial components of maintaining recovery.
If relapse occurs, it's essential to return to the support system and continue recovery efforts.
The author emphasizes that relapse is a part of the recovery process and it's okay to slip up.
The book aims to be a staple in Barnes & Noble, reaching a wide audience.
The author's sobriety is celebrated, and the book is seen as a contribution to the recovery community.
The interviewee traveled from New York City to share their experience, highlighting the importance of spreading awareness.
The interviewee discusses the importance of recognizing the early signs of relapse to prevent it.
The author's journey from addiction to recovery is a testament to the power of resilience and support.
The book serves as a guide for both individuals struggling with addiction and their loved ones.
The author's experiences are shared to provide hope and practical advice for those in recovery.
