Rewiring the Addicted Brain: A Psychologist's Guide to Addiction Recovery

The complexity of addiction extends far beyond what most people understand. Join Jessica Stipanovic and Psychologist Faust Ruggiero, with over 35 years of clinical experience, as they bring profound insight into this challenging territory on the latest Sober Living Stories podcast. 

Ruggiero's approach to addiction recovery challenges conventional thinking. "When you talk about addiction, people almost always go right to drugs or alcohol," he explains, before revealing he's identified at least 17 distinct addiction patterns in his latest book. From gambling and food addiction to exercise obsession, these compulsions share fundamental neurological mechanisms despite their surface differences.

What sets Ruggiero's methodology apart is his action-oriented framework. "I like to write the way I counsel," he shares. "Let's get all the information about you, let's give you all the information about your addiction, and then let's give you action steps." This practical approach mirrors successful 12-step programs, which are essentially structured action plans for recovery.

The family dimension of addiction receives particular attention throughout the conversation. Ruggiero emphasizes that addiction creates ripple effects through entire family systems, with members developing coping mechanisms that often enable continued addiction. "Nobody gets out of this unscathed," he notes, highlighting why recovery must involve healing family dynamics alongside individual healing.

Perhaps most hopeful is Ruggiero's perspective on the brain's adaptability. Through consistent practice and proper support, the addicted brain can learn new patterns of satisfaction without extreme stimulation. "Our brains learn and learning is just repetition," he explains, offering a powerful counterpoint to the misconception that addiction represents an unchangeable aspect of identity.

In the summer of 2016, Mr. Ruggiero began to develop The Fix Yourself
Empowerment Series based on the Process Life Program to help readers address the difficult situations in their lives. He has appeared on television, radio shows, and podcasts, both national and international, to discuss the Process Way of Life. His radio show “Fix It With Faust” debuted in June 2021. On June 8, 2023, the second installment in The Fix Yourself Empowerment Series, The Fix Your Anxiety Handbook, was published. It is also an award-winning publication. In December 2003, The Fix Your Depression Handbook was published. It is the third book in the series. The Fix Your Anger Handbook, the series’ fourth book, was published in May 2024.

Ready to begin your journey toward freedom from addiction? Visit faustruggiero.com to learn more about his "Fix Yourself Empowerment Series" and discover resources tailored to your recovery needs.

Sober Living Stories Podcast Host Jessica Stipanovic is a writer, podcast host, and founder of the Female Entrepreneur Organization. Join here:(1) Female Entrepreneur Organization | Facebook

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