Behind Perfect Lives: The Truth About Addiction and Alcoholism (Part 2 of 2) Artwork

Graced Health for Christian Women Over 40

Welcome to the podcast dedicated to women over 40 who are looking for Christ-centered, Intuitive Eating-based and grace-filled ways of taking care of themselves. Hosted by NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Certified Nutrition Coach Amy Connell, we explore our health from a holistic perspective. Tune into Graced Health for conversations about physical, mental and spiritual health and receive peace and freedom in your food, exercise and body.

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Graced Health for Christian Women Over 40

Behind Perfect Lives: The Truth About Addiction and Alcoholism (Part 2 of 2)

March 04, 2025 • Season 23 • Episode 6

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This conversation explores the often hidden issue of addiction within church communities. In part 2 of this series, Sarah Pritchard and Amy discuss addiction and recovery, emphasizing that addiction is an illness rather than a moral failing. They explore how shame and guilt often accompany addiction but aren't helpful since the person is suffering from a disease. Sarah shares her personal perspective that addiction isn't necessarily caused by trauma or upbringing, suggesting it may be more related to chemical makeup or genetics. The conversation also touches on faith, addressing the misconception that being a "better Christian" would prevent addiction problems.

Key points include:

- The church's response to addiction

- Understanding addiction in religious communities

- The challenge of shame

- Finding effective support

- Misconceptions about addiction being solely a moral failing

- The chemical/genetic components of addiction versus environmental factors

- How addiction affects people regardless of their background or upbringing

- Finding gratitude in recovery and the recovery journey

- Exploring the question of whether addiction has genetic components

- The intersection of faith and addiction recovery

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