996-Unlocking Recovery: Exploring Models and Theories of Addiction

Counselor Toolbox Podcast with DocSnipes

#### Introduction

- Presenter: Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes

- Topic: Theories of addiction and co-occurring disorders

- Focus on understanding and addressing co-occurring disorders in addiction treatment

#### Co-Occurring Disorders

- Expectation rather than the exception in addiction treatment

- Importance of addressing co-occurring symptoms to prevent relapse

- Symptoms can include depression, anxiety, PTSD, and personality disorders

#### Theories of Addiction

1. **Moral Theory**

- Addiction seen as a moral weakness

- Treatment focused on willpower and virtuous lifestyle

- Largely outdated

2. **Disease Theory**

- Addiction as a chronic, incurable, and progressive disease

- Genetic and biological factors play a significant role

- Focus on physiological deficits and neurotransmitter imbalances

3. **Social Learning Theory**

- Addiction learned through observation and vicarious reinforcement

- Influence of family, peers, and media on addictive behaviors

4. **Cognitive-Behavioral Theory**

- Irrational thoughts and cognitive distortions lead to addiction

- Addressing negative thinking patterns is crucial for recovery

5. **Self-Medication Hypothesis**

- Addiction as a way to cope with distress and emotional pain

- Individuals use substances or behaviors to manage unbearable feelings

6. **Biopsychosocial Model**

- Comprehensive approach combining biological, psychological, and social factors

- Recognizes the interplay of various elements in the development of addiction

#### Key Symptoms in Early Recovery

- Depression: Hopelessness, low energy, guilt, suicidal ideation

- Anxiety: Increased worry, irritability, restlessness

- PTSD: Emotional dysregulation, hypervigilance, avoidance

- Personality Disorders: Unstable self-image, interpersonal functioning deficits

#### Importance of Comprehensive Treatment

- Addressing all aspects of a person's life for effective recovery

- Combining different treatment models for a holistic approach

### Time Codes for Major Points

00:00 Introduction and overview of addiction and co-occurring disorders

02:30 Co-occurring disorders are the expectation, not the exception

05:15 Symptoms in early recovery: Depression, anxiety, PTSD

10:45 Theories of addiction: Moral theory, disease theory

15:00 Social learning theory and socio-cultural factors

20:30 Cognitive-behavioral theory and cognitive distortions

25:45 Self-medication hypothesis and distress management

30:00 Biopsychosocial model and comprehensive treatment approach

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