This episode of How to Be an Adult, the second of two parts, features a very special guest: Marc Lewis, Ph.D., psychologist, academic and bestselling author of Memoirs of an Addicted Brain and The Biology of Desire. Marc joins Luke in our studio to discuss how popular models of addiction are flawed, and how we can better serve those who are suffering:

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• Shame is a major obstacle in addiction recovery, as it can exacerbate the problem rather than help.
  
• There can be a positive intent or function behind addictive behaviors, which is often overlooked.
  
• Unconditional positive regard and self-acceptance are crucial for supporting those struggling with addiction.
  
• Systemic factors like poverty, lack of social support, and toxic environments significantly contribute to addiction.
  
• Harm reduction approaches that focus on minimizing harm rather than abstinence can be a helpful strategy.
  
• The ideal is to find ways to address the root causes and context rather than just self-medicating, but this is not always feasible.
  
• Willpower and self-control are complex and can be influenced by various factors, not a simple binary.
  
• Narratives, personal stories, and understanding the individual’s experience are valuable in understanding and treating addiction.
  
• Practices like AA that involve confession and acceptance can provide a sense of community and belonging that supports recovery.
  
• There is no one-size-fits-all solution, and flexibility and nuance are required when addressing addiction.
  

This episode continues episode 16. To learn more about Marc’s work, visit his website.

Table of Contents:

00:00 – Intro

00:45 – Recognise the positive intent behind addiction

04:22 – The importance of self-love and forgiveness

11:00 – Addiction in unchangeable circumstances and toxic environments

26:12 – Sheer willpower

28:50 – Outro

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