In this episode, Clive engages in an insightful conversation with Matt Stevens, a recovered addict and podcast host. Matt’s journey from the depths of addiction to a life helping others offers profound lessons and inspiration.
From Late Bloomer to Advocate: Matt’s Story
Matt’s story begins unconventionally, with his addiction taking hold later in life, around age 30. He candidly shares how a failed relationship led him to opioids, which initially provided an escape from emotional pain. However, reflecting on his experiences, Matt realized that the predisposition to addiction was always there, merely waiting for a trigger. This realization underscores a crucial point: addiction can affect anyone, regardless of their background or age.
After finally achieving sobriety, Matt embarked on a mission to help others by starting his “Sober Addictions” podcast. This decision, prompted by a loved one’s suggestion, proved to be a turning point. Podcasting not only provided Matt with a platform to share his story and offer hope but also created an essential accountability structure that supports his continued sobriety.
The Power of Connection and Community
Matt and Clive delve into the critical role of connection and community in overcoming addiction and maintaining a fulfilling life. Clive references the rat park experiments, where rats in enriched environments with social interaction were less likely to choose drug-laced water over plain water. This highlights a vital point: isolation can exacerbate addiction, while a supportive community can provide resilience and a sense of belonging.
They discuss how modern society, with its increasing reliance on technology and decreasing face-to-face interactions, can foster isolation. Matt recalls a time when neighbors readily helped each other, a sense of community that is now harder to find. The key takeaway here is the importance of actively seeking community and building meaningful connections. This can involve attending meetings, joining groups with shared interests, or simply making an effort to connect with people in your local area.
Finding Value and Purpose
A central theme of the podcast is the significance of finding value and purpose in life. Clive references Dr. John D. Martini’s work on identifying personal values, emphasizing that addiction often arises when individuals are not living a fulfilled life. Matt’s turn to opioids after a failed relationship exemplifies this, as the drugs initially filled an emotional void.
Both Matt and Clive agree that recovery involves discovering what truly matters to you and integrating that into your daily life. For Matt, podcasting provides a sense of purpose and accountability. For others, it might be pursuing a hobby, volunteering, or dedicating time to loved ones. The key is to find activities that bring meaning and joy, replacing the void that addiction once filled.
The Importance of Gratitude and Shifting Perspectives
Gratitude emerges as a powerful tool in Matt’s recovery journey. He emphasizes the importance of appreciating the simple things, like waking up without the physical torment of withdrawal. Reflecting on the depths of his addiction, such as being dope sick in a jail cell, reinforces his gratitude for his current life.
Matt also encourages listeners to recognize the inspiration within their own stories. Overcoming addiction is an incredible feat, and acknowledging that personal strength can be a powerful motivator. He underscores the importance of celebrating milestones in recovery, no matter how small, and taking pride in the progress made.
Overcoming Challenges and Seeking Help
Matt acknowledges that early sobriety can be daunting, especially when facing the emotional issues that addiction masked. He points out that individuals may have the emotional maturity of the age they were when they began using, coupled with years of unresolved issues. However, he stresses that help is available for those who seek it.
Matt advises those struggling to humble themselves and admit they cannot do it alone. He recommends checking into rehab or seeking help from a hospital. He also cautions against trying to taper off drugs independently, as this rarely works. The crucial step is to recognize the need for professional support and reach out to the resources available.
Breaking Routines and Creating New Realities
Clive and Matt discuss the concept of reality tunnels, the idea that our habits and routines create a specific path or perspective. To break free from addiction and create positive change, it is essential to disrupt these patterns and create new realities. This involves consciously making different choices, exploring new activities, and shifting your mindset.
Matt encourages listeners to “throw reality a curveball” by doing something unexpected. This could be as simple as taking a different route to work or trying a new hobby. The goal is to disrupt the autopilot and create opportunities for new experiences and connections.
Final Thoughts: A Message of Hope
Matt’s story is a testament to the power of hope, resilience, and the human capacity for change. His journey from addiction to advocacy offers invaluable lessons for anyone seeking a more fulfilling life. By embracing connection, finding purpose, practicing gratitude, and seeking help when needed, anyone can break free from the cycles that hold them back and create a new, brighter reality.
Key Takeaways:
- Addiction can affect anyone, regardless of age or background.
- Community and connection are vital for recovery.
- Finding value and purpose is essential for a fulfilling life.
- Gratitude and self-compassion are powerful tools for change.
- Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
- Disrupting routines and creating new realities can lead to positive transformation.
This podcast episode serves as a powerful reminder that change is possible, and that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a brighter future.
