Recovery: Freedom From Our Addictions

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The basic cause of addiction is predominantly experience-dependent during childhood, and not substance-dependent.” ~ Dr. Vincent Felitti, expert on childhood trauma What does Russell Brand’s childhood have to do with his eventual drug experimentation and eventual addiction? More than you might guess. A 2012 study revealed that trauma raises a child’s odds of developing depression an addiction later on. Maltreatment or traumatic experiences alter the brain regions associated with planning and emotional response. Per the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, 1 out of 4 American children suffer at least one Adverse Childhood Event. Significantly, research shows that each ACE experience increases the likelihood of initiating alcohol or drug use between 200% and 400%. This means a child witnessing or suffering 5 or more ACEs has an addiction risk that is 10-20 times higher than a child experiencing zero ACEs. Young Russell Brand experienced at least SEVEN. The Effect of Specific ACEs We made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others. Brand doesn't give us anything new here other than his own experience and testimony of the 12-Step program, but he does it with more insight, expanding the concept of *Higher Power* with wisdom and his own comedic touch. He applies the 12-steps to a wide variety of the obstacles that might be keeping us from being the person we are meant to be (drugs, alcohol, food, anger, selfishness, depression, etc.). Rather than just educating myself, I came away with a desire to improve myself and be a little more at peace in my environment, and a little enlightenment. Some clinicians argue against the 12 Step program concerned that a participant would only be replacing one addiction with another...I think Brand gives an eloquent argument against that opinion. The past can be a heavy burden. Holding onto anger, resentment, or guilt can hinder one’s recovery journey. Russell speaks of the transformative power of forgiveness. This isn’t just about forgiving others but also about forgiving oneself. Letting go of past mistakes and transgressions can be incredibly freeing. 7. The Need for Continuous Growth

Recovery by Russell Brand - review - Evening Standard Recovery by Russell Brand - review - Evening Standard

But like many people who are the Steps for the first time, Brand did not quite connect with them, responding with, “ maybe for you, but not for me.” He freely admits that his early rejection of Steps probably stemmed from his self-centeredness, a trait he shares with most addicts. That is a position he soon moved away from. Today, Brand says, “The reason I worked the 12 Steps was because I was desperate. The reason I continue to is because they have awakened me to the impossibility of happiness based on my previous world view: that I am the center of the world and that what I want is important.” The 12 Steps in Russell Brand’s Language Understanding how certain behaviours and characteristics can affect your life, for example having a big ‘EGO’ will never lead to anything other than inner suffering and misery. Wow. A few months ago my mum told me about this podcast she had started listening to called 'Under the Skin' created and hosted by Russell Brand. I was intrigued by the things she told me about it and so started listening and was captivated by the guests he had on, the topics they discussed and the incredibly honest and vulnerable way he shared parts of his own story. Fast forward a few months and from listening to his podcast I learnt about Russell Brand's newest book Recovery: Freedom from Our Addictions. Having walked the path of recovery himself, Russell’s personal experiences deeply influence the book, making it authentic and relatable. Brand’s first book, a 2007 memoir called My Booky Wook, is published by Hodder & Stoughton, an imprint of Hachette. When asked whether the company will continue publishing the memoir, Hodder & Stoughton told the Guardian: “We have no further plans to work with Russell Brand. My Booky Wook is currently on sale.”but other than that I was really really impressed with how this managed to communicate that it’s OK and it’s Human to make mistakes, to give in to the monkey mind, to choose the wrong ‘program’ to solve our darkest, deepest woes - it’s human to suffer in this way. Having had a spiritual awakening as a result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to addicts, and to practice these principles in all our affairs. When he was 6 months old, his parents divorced. From that point on, he had a sporadic relationship with his father. In the vast ocean of self-help books, “Recovery” by Russell Brand stands out, not just because of its celebrity author but due to its profound insights and authenticity. The top 8 ideas presented in the book are not just theories but tried and tested truths, making it a treasure trove of wisdom. So, if you’re seeking a transformative read, look no further. Dive into “Recovery” and embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation.

12 Steps According to Russell Brand | Northpoint Idaho The 12 Steps According to Russell Brand | Northpoint Idaho

I applaud anybody who can use a 12 step program to both get and maintain sobriety (note: I will use sober in this review to mean free from addiction. I will use it to mean not using or doing a destructive behaviour that a person is addicted to.) I will add that my own experience (and those I have been around) have included variable results with them.This manual for self-realization comes not from a mountain but from the mud...My qualification is not that I am better than you but I am worse.” — Russell Brand He goes through the 12 step program created by the founder of Alcoholics Anonymous. He gives his interpretation of each one and also how he has tried to follow each step. He mentions other addicts and how they have helped him as well as how he has tried to help others. He does this in an often amusing yet thought provoking way. As a writer, Russell is amongst the best on his field. The title signifies the book’s central theme – the journey of recovery, self-discovery, and personal transformation. s? Sure. When an author expresses himself with such sincerity, intimacy, and intelligence -- I am inclined to feel gratitude for the shared experience. (And never has the phrase "F*ed up* sounded so proper.) I also thought Brand's definition of addiction and how that broadened interpretation fit into our current world was significant. I bought this book (and the audio version which is narrated by Brand) to expand my understanding of addictions and recovery, and also as a reader that has experience with the subject professionally and within my family that is always looking to better understand. I've read extensively on the subject, lived with it, and worked with addicts. And I think that sadly, that has become the norm.

Recovery: Freedom from Our Addictions (Audio Download

In chemistry, when two substances are introduced, if either component reacts at all then both are changed forever’ One of the things that does come across is the idea that this is not an easy process. It is hard work. Whatever a person is addicted to (in my case, coffee), they (I) could think of a hundred different justifications why it is ok. Even though I know I am addicted I am ok with it. I am allowed one vice, right? The program goes through the process of saying no, it is not ok. It is also no good replacing one addiction with another. Also, once an addiction is beaten, it is a constant battle not to relapse.This manual for self-realization comes not from a mountain but from the mud.... My qualification is not that I am better than you but I am worse." (Russell Brand) Beyond the physical and mental realms lies the spiritual. Russell believes that true recovery touches the soul. It’s not just about abstaining from a substance or behavior but about finding a deeper purpose or connection. This might be a connection to a higher power, the universe, or simply a deeper understanding of oneself. 4. The Importance of Honesty The present moment is all we truly have. Russell’s emphasis on living in the “now” is a call to let go of past regrets and anxieties about the future. By focusing on the present, one can make the most of every moment, leading to a more fulfilled and balanced life.