#274 – The Blame Game with Veronica Valli & Chip Somers

VeronicaValli

Chip and Veronica explore how we blame circumstances and other people for our alcohol problem. Blaming is a psychological defence mechanism to justify our drinking behaviour, but it also means we stay stuck in a harmful place. Everybody has ‘stuff’. Lots of people who have a drug or alcohol problem had childhood experiences that were harmful, hurtful or abusive. These need to be validated and acknowledged so healing can take place, but ultimately, we get to a point where we need to consider: It’s not what happens to you but how you choose to respond to what happens to you that really matters. Listen to the episode now: Follow Us for FREE: Apple Podcasts | Android | Spotify | RSS Watch to the episode now: about this episode

“When we get stuck in blame, we become powerless.” In this episode, Veronica Valli and Chip discuss the topic of blame and how it can hinder progress in addiction recovery. They share personal experiences and explore the conscious and subconscious aspects of blame. They emphasize the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions and choices, and the need to move from blame to acceptance. They also discuss the role of resources and access to help in the process of healing and overcoming blame. In today’s conversation we talk about:

Blame is a common process that individuals in addiction recovery get stuck in.
Blame can be a conscious or subconscious defense mechanism to justify one’s behavior.
While it is important to acknowledge and validate past experiences, it is crucial to take responsibility for one’s actions and choices.
Blame can be a way of giving away power and remaining stuck in a victim mentality.
Moving from blame to acceptance requires work, resources, and a shift in mindset.
Access to resources and help should be available to individuals who want to overcome blame and heal.
It is important to value and prioritize one’s own healing journey and invest in the necessary support and resources.
Blame can hinder progress in addiction recovery and prevent individuals from living a fulfilling and empowered life.