Let's Talk About Grief and Addiction: My Latest Podcast Appearance

I was a guest on Dr. Carla Manly's podcast

Recently, I was a guest on Dr. Carla Manly's podcast “Imperfect Love.” We engaged in a deeply personal conversation about topics that, if you have kept up with me long enough to know, resonate deeply with me: grief and addiction.

In the episode titled "The Intricate Web of Addiction, Love, Loss, Grief, and Healing," we explored the often misunderstood and stigmatized nature of the disease of addiction and its ripple effects on individuals and their loved ones. We talked about heroin, mental health, trauma responses, intrusive thoughts, and why the five stages of grief might be bogus; you name it, we went there. We also delved into the often isolating journey of grief and survivor’s guilt.

Dr. Manly provides a content warning at the start of the podcast, so please consider that.

This conversation reminded me why I started publishing my writing in the first place: to share the truth behind what it is like to have drug addiction in your family and be a voice for families that have to live through this nightmare. I published my first essay on addiction nearly 10 years ago (!!!), and people are still finding it today and reaching out to me personally. If any of my work was going to be evergreen, I am so happy that it’s this. Being an advocate for those dealing with addiction and grief is important to me, and I’m always happy to get on a podcast to talk about these issues.

I believe the episode holds valuable insights for anyone who is unfortunately impacted by these issues. You can listen or WATCH to the episode here. I hope you find solace and strength in the podcast.

Talk Soon!

Alicia