The Harrmonious Mind

S3E5: What is the Best Recovery Method?

S3E5:  Being a certified addictions counsellor in both Canada and Michigan, Psychologist Doug Pryor shares his experience and observances from each side of the border when it comes to the models of recovery that work best for addiction recovery.

S3E4: Denial is More than a Big River in Egypt!

S3E4:  "Denial is more than a big river in Egypt!"  It's a common saying in recovery circles, because people challenged with AUD/SUD (alcohol/substance use disorders) spend a loooonnnnngggggg time in denial.
On this episode, Lance and I chat about my years of denial and what finally pushed me to seek recovery from my drug and alcohol addictions.

S3E3: Helping Yourself First is KEY

S3E3:  Lance is back on this episode to offer some perspective to family members who are living with someone who's addicted.
Most of the inquiries we receive are from family members who are trying to help their loved one.  The sad reality is that there is very little you can do, except help yourself.
On this episode, you'll earn how the PIUS tool can help hone your communication skills to help rather than hinder.

S3E2: Become an Effective Communicator

S3E2:  Communication is a challenge for many of us, especially when we're dealing with heightened emotions.  
On this episode of the Red Roof Recovery show, Lance and Tanya share how they resolve some of their communication challenges -- using the tools of SMART and other cognitive behaviour therapies. 

S3E1: What is a Balanced Life?

S3E1:  In order for me to maintain my motivation to abstain from harmful substances and behaviours, I've had to learn to develop my self worth and my 'value' independent from outside circumstances, perceived realities, and society's opinions of me. 
This hasn't been an easy task.  We live in a culture that values "achievements,"... specifically financial and professional achievements.
On this episode of the Red Roof Recovery show, we explore the solutions to living a balanced life in an unbalanced world.

S2E12: Removing Stigma

S2E12:  Do you think the societal stigma around addiction is increasing or decreasing?  The pandemic has tripled addiction and suicide rates, and addiction is still the most stigmatized condition on the planet.
On this episode of Red Roof Recovery, I have a conversation with Serenity Cates who now works in the addiction services sector, after overcoming homelessness and addiction.
 

S2E11: Removing Stigma with guest, Serenity Cates

S2E11:  On this episode of RRR, Serenity Cates and I have a conversation about her recovery from addiction, and what we can do to help eliminate the societal stigma. Serenity has experienced trauma, addiction, and homelessness, and is now a social work professional working with people who are facing the same struggles and barriers that she faced.

S2E10: Using EAR to Communicate

S2E10:  Communication has the power to polarize and the power to connect -- and how we choose to use communication can determine the quality of our life, the quality of our relationships, and the quality of our recovery from addictions!
 
 

S2E9: Saving My Marriage

S2E9:  My catalyst for change came in 2009 when I made the decision to check into a rehab facility to address my escalating addictions to drugs and alcohol.
Lance and I were married in 1991, so - at that time - he had lived with me for 18 years while my addictions progressed.
On this episode, I ask Lance to answer questions that I was always reluctant to hear the answers to... questions like:  What prevented you from leaving me during that time?  What was your catalyst for change when you decided that your next move was to leave our marriage?

S2E8: Dealing with Guilt & Shame

S2E8:  There are recurring topics that come up for people who are challenged with mental health disorders like addiction -- guilt and shame.
We feel guilty about our loved ones having to live with us - because we feel unworthy.
We feel shame for being unable to change the fact that we're suffering from a chronic illness that feels beyond our control.
Tanya and Lance delve into another deep discussion and share some ideas about the best way to melt away unhelpful beliefs.