Vagus Adventures Masterclass: Unraveling the Mystery of Addictions

Vagus Adventures Masterclass (90 minute recording)
**To purchase full 3-part series at a discount, check out the Masterclass bundle!**

Unraveling the Mystery of Addictions Through the Vagus Nerve
with Jan Winhall, Elizabeth Moitoza& Robert Ragucci
 
Introduction to Felt Sense Polyvagal Model Addiction Treatment
Addiction is often framed within the context of a brain disease model, which suggests that changes in the brain are the primary cause of addictive behaviors. However, Polyvagal Theory offers a different perspective that can revolutionize our understanding and treatment of addiction.
 
Challenging the Brain Disease Model
 
Understanding Addiction:
The brain disease model posits that addiction is a result of neurological changes due to substance use. While it is true that addiction can lead to various diseases, this perspective does not address the underlying causes of addiction itself.
Polyvagal Theory emphasizes the role of the autonomic nervous system in regulating emotional and physiological states. Addictions are seen as state regulation strategies that shift the body from overwhelm to numbing and back again. In this sense addictive behaviors are seen as adaptive responses in maladaptive environments. By focusing on how our nervous system responds to stress and trauma, we can gain insights into why individuals may turn to addictive behaviors as a coping mechanism.
 
The Role of Safety and Connection:
According to Polyvagal Theory, feelings of safety and social connection are crucial for healthy self regulation. When individuals feel unsafe or disconnected, they may resort to substances/behaviors as a means of self-soothing or escaping painful feelings.
This approach suggests that effective treatment should prioritize creating a sense of safety and fostering connections rather than solely addressing the chemical dependency or process addiction.
 
Updating the 12-Step Model
How can the 12-Step model be enhanced by our understanding of addiction today?
Is it important to emphasize powerlessness in addiction recovery?
In what ways could the reliance on a disease model in the 12-Step program undermine an individual's sense of agency in their healing journey?
What benefits might arise from adopting a more holistic approach that considers trauma and emotional dysregulation alongside addictive behaviors?
Where do the 12 Step Program and Polyvagal-Informed Addiction Treatment overflap?
What can each approach learn from the other?
From a Polyvagal perspective, addictions are adaptive behaviors. So how can you call an adaptive behavior a disease?
 
Moving Towards a More Holistic Approach
Instead of framing addiction as a moral failing or a lifelong disease, Polyvagal-informed treatment advocates for understanding the complex interplay between trauma, emotional dysregulation, and addictive behaviors.This perspective encourages personalized treatment plans that incorporate somatic therapies, mindfulness practices, and community support to address the root causes of addiction.
 
Call to Action
Polyvagal-informed addiction treatment introduces a refreshing perspective that invites us to reconsider traditional approaches. It highlights the crucial role that the autonomic nervous system plays in establishing safety in the recovery process. Join us in exploring these controversial ideas further, as we work together to reshape the conversation around addiction treatment for a more supportive and holistic future.