Introduction to Physical Illness | Addiction and Mental Health Recovery Activities
youtu.be
The content segments discuss the relationship between physical illnesses and mood or addiction issues. Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes explains that many individuals with mood and addiction problems also have co-occurring physical disorders, particularly autoimmune issues like Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus. These autoimmune issues can be triggered or worsened by stress, which is often caused by dysphoric emotions and unhealthy behaviors associated with addiction, depression, anger, anxiety, guilt, and grief. Conversely, autoimmune issues can also trigger mood issues such as anxiety, depression, guilt, and grief.
Chronic pain is highlighted as another factor that can worsen addiction and mood issues. Conditions like osteoarthritis or fibromyalgia can cause persistent pain, which can trigger or exacerbate addiction or mood problems, especially in the case of fibromyalgia.
Sleep disorders are often overlooked but can significantly impact recovery. Even without depression or anxiety, sleep disorders make recovery more challenging. Inadequate quality sleep hinders the body's ability to rebalance neurotransmitters and can make it harder to control unwanted thoughts, cravings, and negative emotions. Getting adequate quality sleep is emphasized as crucial for overcoming post-acute withdrawal syndrome in addiction or rebalancing neurochemicals and improving focus in mood issues.
PAWS, or post-acute withdrawal syndrome, is discussed as a condition that occurs during early recovery from addiction. It is characterized by imbalances in neurotransmitters and changes in the structure and functioning of the brain. Individuals may experience reduced energy, periodic cravings, and fluctuations in symptoms during this period. PAWS is a physical disorder that requires time for recovery.
Overall, the content emphasizes the importance of recognizing the connection between physical health issues and addiction, and the need to develop healthy coping mechanisms to improve mental and physical well-being.
The content segments discuss the relationship between physical illnesses and mood or addiction issue