Eps 649: why are addicts self-hating
— The too lazy to register an account podcast
SAMHSA's National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357) , (also known as the Treatment Referral Routing Service) or TTY: 1-800-487-4889 is a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders.
Created for family members of people with alcohol abuse or drug abuse problems.
Addresses concerns of children of parents with substance use/abuse problems.
Host
Soham Castillo
Podcast Content
Addiction is a complex and multifaceted issue that affects millions of people around the world. It often comes with a heavy burden of shame, self-doubt, and self-hatred. But why do addicts hate themselves so much? What is it about addiction that makes self-loathing such a common and pervasive experience?
There are a few key reasons why addicts may struggle with self-hatred. Firstly, addiction is often accompanied by feelings of guilt and remorse. Many addicts engage in behaviors that they know are harmful to themselves and others, causing them to feel immense guilt for their actions. This guilt can quickly spiral into self-hatred as addicts struggle to come to terms with the damage they have caused.
Secondly, addiction can erode an individual's sense of self-worth and self-esteem. As addiction takes hold, individuals may find themselves engaging in behaviors that are completely contrary to their beliefs and values. This disconnect between actions and values can cause a deep sense of shame and self-hatred as individuals struggle to reconcile who they are with the person they have become.
Additionally, addiction often comes with a high level of societal stigma and judgment. Addicts are often viewed as weak, selfish, and morally bankrupt individuals, leading them to internalize these negative beliefs about themselves. This external judgment can fuel self-hatred, as addicts begin to see themselves through the lens of society's negative perceptions.
Furthermore, addiction can be a coping mechanism for underlying emotional pain and trauma. Many addicts turn to substances or behaviors to numb themselves from painful memories or emotions. However, this numbing can also prevent individuals from fully processing and healing from their past traumas, leading to a cycle of self-hatred as they struggle to understand and address the root cause of their addiction.
Lastly, addiction can be isolating and lonely. Addicts often feel disconnected from their loved ones and communities as their addiction takes over their lives. This loneliness can exacerbate feelings of self-hatred as addicts struggle to find a sense of belonging and connection in a world that can feel overwhelming and indifferent.
In conclusion, addiction is a complex and multifaceted issue that can lead to deep feelings of self-hatred in those who struggle with it. The guilt, shame, societal judgment, emotional pain, and isolation that often accompany addiction can all contribute to a negative self-image and a lack of self-love. It is important for addicts to seek help and support in order to break free from the cycle of self-hatred and begin to rebuild their sense of self-worth and self-compassion. Addiction is a disease that thrives in isolation and shame, and it is only through connection, understanding, and self-compassion that addicts can begin to heal and reclaim their lives.