I surrendered my addiction to the Lord. And said if you will take away the desire to use, I will do the work to stay clean. AA everyday. Got a sponsor, Called sponsor if I felt like using. Sober friends. 38 years sober. We may be powerless, Christ is not. Lots of meetings, lots of prayer. I was given a new wonderful life.
Science comes first in this church. The first thing we asked as missionaries is to study and do the experiment, which is how I conclude this is the true church of Christ. All science.
Wow! That was honestly one of the best videos I have ever seen. It hit on so many levels: Knowledge-based, faith-based, science-based, psychology-based. This is a high-quality resource.
@@X4g6d7 the Church is all about science, they taught me to study and experiment from the beginning. It is smart to realize faith is only the beginning, and the end is ultimately Eternal Life. Sesame Street was not able to teach me the least of this 😌
Thanks Doctor. I am a recovering addict who is in the hospital being administered heavy narcotics to alliviate pain. I have 11 1/2 months free from active addiction in its wrecking form. I appreciate you.
I appreciate their approach to addressing both the neuroscientific and spiritual perspectives regarding addiction. I've slowly come to realize the transformation of my own mind as it heals from the destructive effects of pornography.
From an addict (several years in an opioid treatment program - no slips so far!) as well as somebody just coming into the faith, I was incredibly impressed by this video. Beautifully-filmed; explained in a way (with stunning use of landscape) that the mechanisms of the brain become easy to visualise and understand; scientifically accurate; and grounded in faith and compassion - this is a remarkable little video. Kudos to everyone involved, and to the Church for throwing itself behind such great work.
Hi @master of crumpets, we're glad you appreciate these videos and have attended the 12-step meetings. Keep it up and take care! addictionrecovery.churchofjesuschrist.org/?lang=eng
This wonderful video explains the neurological issues surrounding addiction in an extremely straightforward and easily understood way while still focusing on the healing power of the Atonement. Thank you!
Also think about the words Nephi used to describe Laman and Lemuel. They were required to leave their gold, silver, and precious things and they thought they were going to perish in the wilderness. Because of this, Nephi called them stiffnecked. Basically, they needed a soft midbrain. And what counsel did Lehi give them? Continually run to the Savior for help and also be firm and steadfast and immovable in taking effective righteous action. If the Savior can visit Nephi and soften his heart, then surely He can visit any one of us and soften our midbrain. (1 Nephi 2:7-12)
I absolutely love how this explains how the brain gets into "addiction mode". It makes sense and is educational. My only disappointment is how little time is given to show how the brain actually recovers and also, the lack of time given to a longer bullet point list of help, answers, solutions and what that may look like.
I'm glad we come a long way in understanding adiction. I can't help but to think about previous generations who suffered this awful disease just to be judged and not effective treatment provided to them.
Me too. At a young age I experience alot of addiction Im grateful because of fasting church activities and temple. It helps me to change my bad appetites.
@@mist4926 its tough when you can't go to the temple, receive the sacrament. I know, it's been 51 months for me. Here's what i would say: don't blame, don't blame the church, it's leaders or others. Own your choices, decisions. Look honestly within. My addiction, it led me to places i still can't believe i went. But the root, and the key to coming back has been recognizing my pride. Either you're broken, and letting Christ work within you, or you're trying to do it yourself, which won't work. Wish you the best. Come to Christ, admit you're powerless, and recognize He is not.
I was able to change two things. Pray more often that Heavenly Father help me do better, and years of CBT (therapy) that I had to work hard to pay for. Now I feel free, and understand myself better!
The comparisons are terrific and make addictions so much easier to understand, and understanding how addictions work is key to overcoming them. Very well done.
this has helped me understand addiction more than any other video i have watched .....i feel hope again for my kids addicted....they can heal their brains im just scared for them they wont make it ...and have time to heal
It should be noted that although Dr McCauley makes a point of urging the addict to pray to be able to resist the temptations, we should go further, and commit the weakness (addiction) to the Savior to shoulder. There is little that we can do for ourselves to overcome our addiction. We can do everything expected of a Latter-Day-Saint, and one that is afflicted by an addiction, and still not overcome the addiction. It MUST be turned over to the Lord to permit healing. He has paid the price for it, and he owns the recovery of it.
Wow...this video is very powerful!!! The way addiction is explained, it helped me realized my addiction with smoking cigarettes. Since I am allergic to nicotine, I smoke cigs that have no nicotine. BUT I am still addicted to smoking. I believe this video will be the main tool to help me quit smoking! THANK YOU!!! 🙏 💕
You're welcome! We're glad to hear this video helped you. We know healing from addiction can be found through our Savior, Jesus Christ. For more help to quit smoking, visit addictionrecovery.churchofjesuschrist.org/home?lang=eng. Take care!
This is the best video I have seen on healing from addiction. It is nonjudgmental and shows it from the physical side and shows people are not evil just because of it. Thant you for the insight.
I'm a former active member of the LDS Church... have a ton of respect for the people and the way of life. Great values and morals... resulting in happiness... no doubt when lived without the controlling factors involved in my opinion. But this is great technically sound information. Great video!
Hi Troy, we're glad to hear you appreciated the video. For more articles, videos, and information about mental health from the Church, visit www.churchofjesuschrist.org/get-help/mental-health. We hope that helps!
This is a great video! It really helps us understand what goes on in the brain and helps us better target treat addiction. Thanks for publishing this video! Dr. Kevin McCauley is awesome.
Thank you so much! Like most diseases prevention is best and Satan knows that! I found it very inspiring and now it really makes sense! I guess I am a visual learner. I just read that conscious thought travels at 120 MPH and unconscious at 100,000 MPH! Correct me if I am wrong. That's a great reason to pray! Addiction's a disease You can ultimately die The pain does naught but increase Here is the explanation why... Think of your brain as a landscape Life and experience have formed its shape There's vast expanses full of bumps and grooves Carved out like the wind and water that moves The brain is a place you can see, visit, and explore Where we can consciously taste, feel, hear and more Walk along the cortex bumps, which are called gyri To the front lobes that rise up from those grooves called sulci Here form our thoughts, life goals, and personality In the bright sunlight of rationality Perhaps the Light of Christ is here in the mind? Here, all are given to know right and wrong ,we find As here is where we weigh out our options And we exercise agency and see cautions This is the part of the brain where we attach Here our bonds keeps us from behaving rash This is where spiritual meaning is found And where decisions of charity abound So when there is an addiction did this area break? Actually, they work deeper down, making it harder to shake The midbrain does not think to ask, "Why?" or "How?" It is primal for survival "in the now" It is also referred to as the natural man Here addictions hijack so pleasure can expand The mid-brain thinks it's needed for survival So, addicts, this is not a good time to be prideful Start the 12 step program, now, right away See your bishop and continually pray Through the atonement recovery is real! Still know this: it takes time for the brain to heal!
I would like to see a video about coping with life's pain and insurmountable stress we often must suppress. I believe this is what ultimately leads us into the temptation to partake in a substance or behavior that becomes an addiction. Humans innately seek pleasure and run from pain. Many feel abandoned by the Lord even with significant efforts made to draw near to him. It is often easier to numb our pain with dopamine releasing behaviors.
Lehi's dream and Nephi's interpretation describe that God's love is the most desirable to the soul (body and spirit). I believe we have a God given void in our souls that needs to be filled with His love. The dream teaches us how to fill it with God's love. The adversary creates counterfeits to fill the void which can bring temporary relief but eventually enslave us. God's love and comfort can help us through life's pain and stress. The Iron Rod is the gospel of Jesus Christ. If we daily learn it and live it, we will feel God's love. I hope you can feel more of His love in your life.
Thank you for this video. It definitely clears the air regarding addictive behaviour and hopefully it will open up new opportunities to effectively support those who suffer this condition.
It’s not just about resisting the temptations and giving your brain time to heal, it’s about replacing the addiction with whatever is healthy. Example, if someone has a sexual addiction that is triggered by loneliness, then they need healthy human relationships to replace the addiction that addresses the loneliness. White knuckling is not the way to heal.
Well its nice to know why i cant kick my weed habit no matter how much I pray, fast, and read scripture. I have noticed times where I dont think oh I want to smoke, i just smoke like it is as natural as breathing and eating.
He did say there are other interventions that are needed to help with addiction; such as the 12 Step Program ( addictionrecovery.churchofjesuschrist.org/home?lang=eng ), working with your Bishop, Professional Therapy, and allowing the Atonement of Jesus Christ be a part of the process.
@@aryahomeyet I actually started reading the scriptures more and being more moral out side of weed and now I haven't smoked in over 2 weeks and have no desire to. My weed smoking was effecting other things negatively so I switched up the other things and it effected my weed smoking.
I saw, what must've of been the first version, of this video at family weekend at the treatment facility where my son was. I loved the analogy brain and the the dessert. He made easy to understand how addiction works. I'm so excited to see that you have made this into a video including the need for Christ on the the path to recovery. He can be the power within us if we allow Him. Thank you so making this video.
I think it is most affective to help addicts b recover by teaching them healthier ways to cope and comfort themselves expecially through talents and skills.
I think coping and comforting themselves with talents helps also to find themselves again and connect more to remembering they are a child of God and that Jesus didn't Leave us alone but he gave us gifts and talents to help us cope and is Part of who we are even before we were born.
I am a member. I believe very strongly in the power of choice. The power to choose to have faith in an unseen God and his Son is at the core of my understanding. One of the ongoing issues I have with those who classify addiction as a disease along with cancer, colds, leukemia, and other types of sickness is that at one point, the addiction was a choice. I chose to look at pornography, smoke meth, or shoot heroin. I didn't have someone hold me down and repeatedly inject me until I became hooked. Maybe I don;t fully understand what the new definition of disease really is. I see one of the hardest things in recovery as moving beyond the feeling of "It's out of my control because it is a disease." I see the word disease as a way people ignore the responsibility of their choice. I get that there are physical side effects of continued use of drugs and pornography. I have seen the studies and read all the research. Maybe there needs to be a new definition of the condition resulting from a choice like this. Calling the actual addiction a disease puts it into the same category as things that are most of the time out of control of individuals. We are so quick to define something as a disease in order to get acknowledgement or official validation to be eligible for treatment. Maybe I lack the right kind of empathy. Maybe I lack real understanding of those who haven't yet understood the power of choice in their daily lives. Impulse control is about choice and accountability. Are we afraid to hold people accountable for their actions because they will have their feelings hurt? Can someone help me understand the other side of this without calling me names or labeling me as a way of discounting everything I say?
+Bill Wagner My initial quick response might be that while someone makes the choice to engage in addictive behaviors, most of the time they are using it to self-medicate some other problem. And again, while it is a choice, it's also a choice to take a prescription to deal with back pain or some other medical ailment. Maybe that's way off, or a bad analogy. I'll try to think about it some more... I agree, it's not a disease in the way that cancer is, but it is a disease.
I find it to be a disease in the way that if you continually walk on a broken leg for a year you'll get crps (an incurable nerve disease). you may have the option to say no, but we all sin and make stupid decisions some more drastic then others.
+Will Goodrich I understand exactly what you are saying. As a Mormon, I believe in that which is greater than me to heal me and make that which is weak strong. The issue I am looking to address is choice. So many times those who attempt to lovingly support addicts enable the continual bad behavior by rationalizing it by calling it a disease. I don't deny the science. I am seeking a new word by which we can define these kinds of conditions which are brought about primarily by choice. Christ says in 3 Nephi 27:29 ...for he that askesth shall receiveth; and unto him that knocketh it shall be opened. This implies action and choice. Either we choose to follow Christ or choose to follow the ways of man. Christ will not force us to choose good. By that same path, we choose to do those things which bring about consequences. Choosing to look at pornography forces the Spirit away. Resulting in lack of guidance and we need outside help to return to God via the Atonement. Repentance requires accountability. I am saying I need a different word to help myself and others understand the inherent accountability we have for certain conditions like addiction. Calling it a disease gives people an easy way to rationalize away their role in their situation. I believe if we can change the word we can change the perception of the condition and provide a simpler path thru the pain back to Christ.
+Bill Wagner You're correct that you do not fully understand the nature of addiction. Often those who form addictions do so before they are consciously aware they are making a choice. Many with severe addictions have been deeply emotionally wounded and did not have the spiritual maturity to turn to Heavenly Father for help as they struggled with the traumas they were experiencing and were so hurting when they began making bad choices that any solution seemed viable. If you have ever experienced intractable chronic pain you will easily understand a persons willingness to try anything proffered that could make the pain end, indeed addiction to [prescribed pain killers is a fairly simple addiction to understand. Emotional pain is not as visible to those around the wounded soul as physical pain is. The response to chronic intractable emotional pain is similar to that of physical pain. I found this video very helpful in understanding the physical aspect of addiction.
+Bill Wagner How about "Self Inflicted Addiction" or "Self Inflicted Disease." If I pull my Kimber 1911 45ACP pistol out and shoot myself in the foot, I have a self inflicted gun shot wound. The big question for this is was it accidental or intentional? As SocietyofEnoch pointed out, it may not be my fault the accident occurred, but the results are the same none the less. Treatment is required. I'm sure the pleasure center of the brain is not strong enough to overcome the pain of a gun shot wound. So this is not an example of an addiction. We MAY start with that choice to "Self Inflict" ourselves, or it could be because of something else. Especially with prescription drugs. But many times it is just our choice. I can't see any case where viewing pornography fell upon us without our consent. nor alcohol. nor recreational drugs. Those are Self Inflicted Addiction or Self Inflicted Disease. But once you do have it you have to have help to overcome that disease. Some times good people make bad choices...
How long does it take for the brain to fully heal? Research suggests 2-3 years of recovery results in a healthy brain. Remember, it's about recovery, not just white-knuckled sobriety.
Narrator: the midbrain overpowers the frontal cortex and takes control. Also narrator: addiction can never be used as an excuse to escape responsibility for our choices and our actions. Me: *visible confusion*
Because the frontal cortex, together with your faith, can still overcome the drive of the midbrain. But this is strenuous and difficult, so it's easy to just not fight it. That's the source of your confusion---and is also why someone who is addicted needs help, which the Savior can give. Prayer is a mighty antidote to the cravings.
When we are children often times out family looks at our attempts to express our emotions as an annoyance. This teacher us that it is unacceptable to be angry, sad, dissappointed, lonely, so on so forth. This unhealthy suppression of our emotions is the root of addiction. Later on these bottles up emotion gain turbulence with the need to be expressed. Taking drugs or alcohol, or sex is a way to numb the impressed emotions and bypass into the pleasure chemicals the brain produces as a result. A big part of being cured of addiction is learning to express those emotions along with prayer and working with priesthood authority. Remember as the season's so it is with the landscape. There is a time for peace and war for love and hate. Give your emotions their day and time and don't expect for it to remain summer all year round.
If a non-Christian is an addict who has been clean for a while and is yet struggling, what should he do first? Take the discussions so that references to prayer and God helping him make sense or just jump directly into the church's 12 step program? I have a friend I'd like to help, if I can.
+KE Disbrow Anyone is welcome to attend the Addiction Recovery Program meetings. This link will help them locate a meeting in their area: addictionrecovery.lds.org/find-a-meeting?lang=eng
+KE Disbrow I'd say both lol we all need all the help we can get right? :) but what ever he's willing to do that the church offers it will help him, and that goes for anyone :)
+KE Disbrow There are many 12 step fellowships around the world. I believe THE 12 steps are recovery, nothing more, nothing less, nothing else. No matter what the addiction or beliefs of the individual when they begin to "follow the path" a some point the person changes. You cannot not change when honestly and thoroughly take the 12 steps. So for me, I'm sober today and have changed inwardly as a result of taking the steps. Also please remember, step 2 of THE 12 steps says, "Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity." To take step 2 all I must ask myself is do I now believe or am I even willing to believe that there is a power greater than me. That's all. I know a guy who has been sober 8 years and his higher power is a can of AJAX. Now, honestly, I think that is crazy but then again I've never tried it so how would I know? Anyway THE 12 steps is a spiritual program of action, your friend doesn't have to be affiliated with any specific religion. The realm of the spirit and roomy and all inclusive, never exclusive or foreboding. We let others follow their heart in this matter of God which will become personal to them. Our conception of God, no matter how inadequate is enough to make a beginning upon which a wonderful and effective spiritual structure can be built. The important part is that we take the 12 steps the best we can, our higher power (whether we know it or not) does the rest.
I had many addictions drugs food promiscuity, it all came to ahead with prison and nearly taking my life, so I turned back to Jesus as a last resort in prayer I cried like I had never cried before and asked him to take these burdens and any dark entities attached to me, I made a covenant with the Lord that if he took this burden, I would turn to him in all things then rely on his knowledge rather than my own, and that I would serve him for all eternity and build up the kingdom of heaven here on earth. Upon saying Amen I felt a huge weight lift of my shoulders and it was a personal revelation that I had never felt before, I’ve been clean 2 months I feel joy and light filling me up, and I’m turning back to the lord and I feel so grateful and am aiming for the temple, thank you thank you thank you my Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost I love you, and I say these things in the name of the Son, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Recovery from addition puzzled me for many,many years. I can remember the first time I felt high from a drug.I was about 8 years old and a Dr. prescribed Benadryl at bedtime so I could sleep white suffering from an allergy. Even though I knew nothing about drugs way back then I immediately felt what is now called a "buzz" and I liked the feeling. There was no peer pressure ,or any other outside influences but rather like something just clicked in my body. But I digress years later I tried alcohol and the feeling was extremely intense much more so than my peers who couldn't believe I could get drunk so quickly .And looking back I can see how my brain must have been wired differently . I would stop but if I went beyond 3 drinks my whole personality would change .I became addicted for about 20 years and tried everything including pleading with my Heavenly Father for help and to make this story short I switched from Vodka to beer which kept me from going through the DTs and I didn't like the taste so little by little I cut down until I didn't need it physically anymore and I am amazed to this day. It wasn't until today when I heard the brain takes time to heal and it is something so simple but so true. Just as a burn or wound must heal to stop hurting the brain has been hurt by drugs and when you sop hurting it, it heals! It took me a year and I didn't have to go back to re-hab to heal. Nature took over and slowly my brain healed, even though the death of my youngest son, my father , and my be-loved companion dying all in the short time of three years I didn't crave a drink! And only do now on rare occasions such as the anniversaries of their deaths, but it passes very quickly, I am trying to help my daughters understand how I finally quit on my own after trying every program you can think of but I didn't understand until just now that my brain healed and it is as much of a miracle to me as Lazarus returning from the dead. Try to look at everyday as if you have been in a car accident which damaged your brain and do what you can to help it heal but you must give it time ..say a year ,but really that is no time at all when you are healing from a fatal brain disease PS It took me 30 years but I made it to the Temple in Nov 2016!
@@SuzzyStohelit Thanks for your story I finally found something that I know is going to work. I'm excited and hopefull. It makes perfect sense. Bless you, sister in Christ.
Hi Joanne, thanks for your comment. Despite the hopelessness you feel, recovery from addiction is possible through Jesus Christ and His Atonement. We invite you and anyone else interested to join the Addiction Recovery Program, a process of studying and applying the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ to find the power to recover from addiction. Learn more and find a meeting here: addictionrecovery.churchofjesuschrist.org/home?lang=eng
I would not refer to random UA-cam commentors for advice instead of your doctor with a PhD. But yes, there are a lot of people who have gotten benefit from using medication. This is purely my anecdotal evidence but I've had a lot of success using it.
I think it's actually the mentality of the addiction that wires the brain and not the brain itself causing the mentality. Also the mice could have been just a reflection in reality of us and this psychological addiction rooted in anxiety and not any particular substance.
+guyoflife I think it is also very difficult to determine what is physiological, spiritual, and emotional. The studies on the brain over the last 10-15 years have been extremely helpful in giving more insight in how the brain works and how it affects behavior & visa versa. However, we still don't have all of the answers. I suppose the best thing to do is try to sort out what information we can use to help us achieve our goals and feel/become healthier (in every way). :)
when working on issues like this I would suggest working on the mental/emotional side as the most fundamental part. Understanding your anxieties. While working up the transition of physical aspects such as diet, exercise and so forth.
***** You believe that and that's fine. I say the brain is only a channel for the mind. The placebo effect curing severe terminal illness seems to agree with me too..
I believe you But isn’t our choice to try Drugs and or behavior? Specially when we may know that certain things may be addicting? Have we somehow become deceived by the Devil or Deceived by our own selves?
Quick question. You talked about Drugs but my drug of choice is food. So how can I deal with that? Drug or Alcohol you with alot of work you can just not do them, but with food you have to eat?? Can you point me in a starting place for that?? Thank you!
If you live in a country that does not permit be patient. Everyone will have the opportunity in this life or in the next. If you are a minor, honor your mother and father and in time you will have the choice. Regardless of your circumstances you can choose now to live a life filled with good choices and enjoy peace of spirit.
Hello- thanks for your comment. There here may be obstacles in your path to becoming a member of the Church, but you can always reach out to your Heavenly Father. He is there, He cares about you, and He will guide you and help you feel His love. We hope you'll one day be able to join us! www.churchofjesuschrist.org.
We serve in a woman's prison as ARP leaders and would like to show this video but we cannot take in electronic devices. we can bring in videos so would like to download this video to show the women. Is that possible?
Dr. McCauley has a longer, more detailed DVD version of this called "Pleasure unwoven : a personal journey about addiction." Look for it online or see if a library near you has it. I've watched it and it's quite good.
I appreciate this. But sitting from where I do, the church cares little about those with addictions. The general leaders care about protecting the church not helping those who struggle. Can you tell me the last time a general conference talk focused on the excommunicated and disfellowshipped? M. Russell Ballard in the mid 80’s. We as a church claim to be concerned about the one, but we aren’t. From the top on down, we don’t. As one with a testimony we have completely failed the one, especially when the one is an addict.
If I could just find a way to overcome the torture of withdrawal I would be cured today.yes I've been to detox 14 times in 10 years there's got to be a way out.in desperation I was thinking to get myself thrown in jail,or a mental hospital for approximately 3 months, knowing that I'd walk out clean then. I just don't know if I want to take such drastic measures.Any other ideas out there? I'm at the end of my rope.
Hi, thanks for tuning in to the video. We're so sorry for the difficulty you've experienced, and we know healing from addiction can be found through the Savior, Jesus Christ. We invite you and anyone else in need to join the Church's Addiction Recovery Program, which supports those recovering from addiction as well as their spouses and family members. Learn more and find a meeting here: addictionrecovery.churchofjesuschrist.org/home?lang=eng
My addiction is facebook playing the game ludo when actually i should be studying 😱 i am trying to keep my focus on heavenly father. At times it's hard 😥
I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I am a 7 year sober methamphetamine addict. I personally testify that addiction is a CHOICE. Yes addiction does become a disease but addiction is ALWAYS A CHOICE. Yes the need to self medicate, be it with food, porn, drugs, alcohol, sex, too much exercise, internet, social media, games, ect, ADDICTION ALWAYS STARTS WITH A CHOICE. Bad choices become addiction because of continued bad choices.
I surrendered my addiction to the Lord. And said if you will take away the desire to use, I will do the work to stay clean. AA everyday. Got a sponsor, Called sponsor if I felt like using. Sober friends. 38 years sober. We may be powerless, Christ is not. Lots of meetings, lots of prayer. I was given a new wonderful life.
I’m proud of you brad. I hope you’re doing well
also remember, never judge someone who is facing addiction, they are really trying they're best.
💯🙏🏾
Judge their actions; Love the person (compassionate love).
Often parents get frustrated because they know what is best and say "I just don't understand," and they are right.
Christ did not condemn us in our shortcomings, neither should we condemn others.
@@RockSmithStudio true👏👍
It was so cool how the church combined science and spirituality in this video!
Science comes first in this church. The first thing we asked as missionaries is to study and do the experiment, which is how I conclude this is the true church of Christ. All science.
I love being sober every single day!
So proud of you!!
@@erin_the_extra2329 Thank you for your courage.
Wow! That was honestly one of the best videos I have ever seen. It hit on so many levels: Knowledge-based, faith-based, science-based, psychology-based. This is a high-quality resource.
We're glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks!
But, just like we learned from Sesame Street “one of these four things doesn’t belong.” Would you like to play along?
@@X4g6d7 the Church is all about science, they taught me to study and experiment from the beginning. It is smart to realize faith is only the beginning, and the end is ultimately Eternal Life. Sesame Street was not able to teach me the least of this 😌
Nice comment here! You know that most of their videos are top quality in resources and every other facet of research available.
Thanks Doctor. I am a recovering addict who is in the hospital being administered heavy narcotics to alliviate pain. I have 11 1/2 months free from active addiction in its wrecking form. I appreciate you.
I appreciate their approach to addressing both the neuroscientific and spiritual perspectives regarding addiction. I've slowly come to realize the transformation of my own mind as it heals from the destructive effects of pornography.
God bless you brother!!!! 🙏🏼💙
From an addict (several years in an opioid treatment program - no slips so far!) as well as somebody just coming into the faith, I was incredibly impressed by this video. Beautifully-filmed; explained in a way (with stunning use of landscape) that the mechanisms of the brain become easy to visualise and understand; scientifically accurate; and grounded in faith and compassion - this is a remarkable little video. Kudos to everyone involved, and to the Church for throwing itself behind such great work.
So good to see this coming from the Church. I have been to the Church's 12 step meetings.
Hi @master of crumpets, we're glad you appreciate these videos and have attended the 12-step meetings. Keep it up and take care! addictionrecovery.churchofjesuschrist.org/?lang=eng
This wonderful video explains the neurological issues surrounding addiction in an extremely straightforward and easily understood way while still focusing on the healing power of the Atonement. Thank you!
Also think about the words Nephi used to describe Laman and Lemuel. They were required to leave their gold, silver, and precious things and they thought they were going to perish in the wilderness. Because of this, Nephi called them stiffnecked. Basically, they needed a soft midbrain.
And what counsel did Lehi give them? Continually run to the Savior for help and also be firm and steadfast and immovable in taking effective righteous action.
If the Savior can visit Nephi and soften his heart, then surely He can visit any one of us and soften our midbrain.
(1 Nephi 2:7-12)
I absolutely love how this explains how the brain gets into "addiction mode". It makes sense and is educational. My only disappointment is how little time is given to show how the brain actually recovers and also, the lack of time given to a longer bullet point list of help, answers, solutions and what that may look like.
I'm glad we come a long way in understanding adiction. I can't help but to think about previous generations who suffered this awful disease just to be judged and not effective treatment provided to them.
I've over come every single addiction u could imagine!!!
Me too. At a young age I experience alot of addiction
Im grateful because of fasting church activities and temple. It helps me to change my bad appetites.
@@harveysagario4289 how does temple help overcome addiction if you excommunicated for having the addition you trying to overcome
@@mist4926 Family members, friends, member of your ward and even you can put your name in the prayer roll every 2 weeks. Prayers are powerful!
@@mist4926 its tough when you can't go to the temple, receive the sacrament. I know, it's been 51 months for me. Here's what i would say: don't blame, don't blame the church, it's leaders or others. Own your choices, decisions. Look honestly within. My addiction, it led me to places i still can't believe i went. But the root, and the key to coming back has been recognizing my pride. Either you're broken, and letting Christ work within you, or you're trying to do it yourself, which won't work. Wish you the best. Come to Christ, admit you're powerless, and recognize He is not.
@R Crane, thanks for sharing your encouragement and experience.
I was able to change two things. Pray more often that Heavenly Father help me do better, and years of CBT (therapy) that I had to work hard to pay for. Now I feel free, and understand myself better!
Thank you Brother!
This is a great help for someone like me who is struggling!
There is a always a help ahead!
There is always a way!
The comparisons are terrific and make addictions so much easier to understand, and understanding how addictions work is key to overcoming them. Very well done.
The more we understand the brain the more hope there is for the hopeless.
this has helped me understand addiction more than any other video i have watched .....i feel hope again for my kids addicted....they can heal their brains im just scared for them they wont make it ...and have time to heal
I hope that this video will one day also be available in different other languages, because I think it will help many people ..
GOOD IDEA .. waiting
It should be noted that although Dr McCauley makes a point of urging the addict to pray to be able to resist the temptations, we should go further, and commit the weakness (addiction) to the Savior to shoulder. There is little that we can do for ourselves to overcome our addiction. We can do everything expected of a Latter-Day-Saint, and one that is afflicted by an addiction, and still not overcome the addiction. It MUST be turned over to the Lord to permit healing. He has paid the price for it, and he owns the recovery of it.
Such a great comment!
Hugely hopeful.
Wow...this video is very powerful!!! The way addiction is explained, it helped me realized my addiction with smoking cigarettes. Since I am allergic to nicotine, I smoke cigs that have no nicotine. BUT I am still addicted to smoking. I believe this video will be the main tool to help me quit smoking! THANK YOU!!! 🙏 💕
You're welcome! We're glad to hear this video helped you. We know healing from addiction can be found through our Savior, Jesus Christ. For more help to quit smoking, visit addictionrecovery.churchofjesuschrist.org/home?lang=eng. Take care!
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This is the best video I have seen on healing from addiction. It is nonjudgmental and shows it from the physical side and shows people are not evil just because of it. Thant you for the insight.
Thanks for your comment. We're glad to hear you appreciated the video!
I'm a former active member of the LDS Church... have a ton of respect for the people and the way of life. Great values and morals... resulting in happiness... no doubt when lived without the controlling factors involved in my opinion. But this is great technically sound information. Great video!
This video is phenomenal! This will be a great teaching aid.
So right on! Thank you for making this video happen. I'm at a loss of words......just grateful.
This is amazing. I wish the church would touch on depression and anxiety a lot more.
Hi Troy, we're glad to hear you appreciated the video. For more articles, videos, and information about mental health from the Church, visit www.churchofjesuschrist.org/get-help/mental-health. We hope that helps!
This is a great video! It really helps us understand what goes on in the brain and helps us better target treat addiction. Thanks for publishing this video! Dr. Kevin McCauley is awesome.
I love this. Thank you so much! What a wonderful video for those with and without addiction have empathy for others and themslves!
Thank you so much! Like most diseases prevention is best and Satan knows that! I found it very inspiring and now it really makes sense! I guess I am a visual learner. I just read that conscious thought travels at 120 MPH and unconscious at 100,000 MPH! Correct me if I am wrong. That's a great reason to pray!
Addiction's a disease
You can ultimately die
The pain does naught but increase
Here is the explanation why...
Think of your brain as a landscape
Life and experience have formed its shape
There's vast expanses full of bumps and grooves
Carved out like the wind and water that moves
The brain is a place you can see, visit, and explore
Where we can consciously taste, feel, hear and more
Walk along the cortex bumps, which are called gyri
To the front lobes that rise up from those grooves called sulci
Here form our thoughts, life goals, and personality
In the bright sunlight of rationality
Perhaps the Light of Christ is here in the mind?
Here, all are given to know right and wrong ,we find
As here is where we weigh out our options
And we exercise agency and see cautions
This is the part of the brain where we attach
Here our bonds keeps us from behaving rash
This is where spiritual meaning is found
And where decisions of charity abound
So when there is an addiction did this area break?
Actually, they work deeper down, making it harder to shake
The midbrain does not think to ask, "Why?" or "How?"
It is primal for survival "in the now"
It is also referred to as the natural man
Here addictions hijack so pleasure can expand
The mid-brain thinks it's needed for survival
So, addicts, this is not a good time to be prideful
Start the 12 step program, now, right away
See your bishop and continually pray
Through the atonement recovery is real!
Still know this: it takes time for the brain to heal!
fantastic, world-class information.
I would like to see a video about coping with life's pain and insurmountable stress we often must suppress. I believe this is what ultimately leads us into the temptation to partake in a substance or behavior that becomes an addiction. Humans innately seek pleasure and run from pain. Many feel abandoned by the Lord even with significant efforts made to draw near to him. It is often easier to numb our pain with dopamine releasing behaviors.
Lehi's dream and Nephi's interpretation describe that God's love is the most desirable to the soul (body and spirit). I believe we have a God given void in our souls that needs to be filled with His love. The dream teaches us how to fill it with God's love. The adversary creates counterfeits to fill the void which can bring temporary relief but eventually enslave us. God's love and comfort can help us through life's pain and stress. The Iron Rod is the gospel of Jesus Christ. If we daily learn it and live it, we will feel God's love. I hope you can feel more of His love in your life.
Thank you for this video. It definitely clears the air regarding addictive behaviour and hopefully it will open up new opportunities to effectively support those who suffer this condition.
Praise the LORD
Thank you for posting such useful videos..
It’s not just about resisting the temptations and giving your brain time to heal, it’s about replacing the addiction with whatever is healthy. Example, if someone has a sexual addiction that is triggered by loneliness, then they need healthy human relationships to replace the addiction that addresses the loneliness. White knuckling is not the way to heal.
Dr. Kevin McCauley, thank you!
Well its nice to know why i cant kick my weed habit no matter how much I pray, fast, and read scripture. I have noticed times where I dont think oh I want to smoke, i just smoke like it is as natural as breathing and eating.
He did say there are other interventions that are needed to help with addiction; such as the 12 Step Program ( addictionrecovery.churchofjesuschrist.org/home?lang=eng ), working with your Bishop, Professional Therapy, and allowing the Atonement of Jesus Christ be a part of the process.
@@aryahomeyet I actually started reading the scriptures more and being more moral out side of weed and now I haven't smoked in over 2 weeks and have no desire to. My weed smoking was effecting other things negatively so I switched up the other things and it effected my weed smoking.
Thank you for these explanations who help so much understand what's really going on with addiction. I hope we can soon have it in french.
This is a great video it really offers a good explanation how drugs affect the brain.
This is fantastic information.
Thank you
I LOVE THIS VIDEO!!! thank you thank you!
this video was so helpful for me to understand my food addiction - now i have more hope - that my brain can heal and what i need to do to heal it!!
I saw, what must've of been the first version, of this video at family weekend at the treatment facility where my son was. I loved the analogy brain and the the dessert. He made easy to understand how addiction works. I'm so excited to see that you have made this into a video including the need for Christ on the the path to recovery. He can be the power within us if we allow Him. Thank you so making this video.
Amazing explanation. Thank you!!!
in my entire life i've never seen such an masterpiece! i'm without words to describe how life changing and well made and well tought this video is!
Great Video. Awesome insight
This was really a great video.
The information in this video is so key in understanding and overcoming an addiction.
This perspective is incredibly helpful!
loved it. I understand better. thanks
I think it is most affective to help addicts b
recover by teaching them healthier ways to cope and comfort themselves expecially through talents and skills.
typo - b.
I think coping and comforting themselves with talents helps also to find themselves again and connect more to remembering they are a child of God and that Jesus didn't Leave us alone but he gave us gifts and talents to help us cope and is Part of who we are even before we were born.
I am a member. I believe very strongly in the power of choice. The power to choose to have faith in an unseen God and his Son is at the core of my understanding. One of the ongoing issues I have with those who classify addiction as a disease along with cancer, colds, leukemia, and other types of sickness is that at one point, the addiction was a choice. I chose to look at pornography, smoke meth, or shoot heroin. I didn't have someone hold me down and repeatedly inject me until I became hooked.
Maybe I don;t fully understand what the new definition of disease really is. I see one of the hardest things in recovery as moving beyond the feeling of "It's out of my control because it is a disease." I see the word disease as a way people ignore the responsibility of their choice.
I get that there are physical side effects of continued use of drugs and pornography. I have seen the studies and read all the research.
Maybe there needs to be a new definition of the condition resulting from a choice like this. Calling the actual addiction a disease puts it into the same category as things that are most of the time out of control of individuals. We are so quick to define something as a disease in order to get acknowledgement or official validation to be eligible for treatment.
Maybe I lack the right kind of empathy. Maybe I lack real understanding of those who haven't yet understood the power of choice in their daily lives. Impulse control is about choice and accountability. Are we afraid to hold people accountable for their actions because they will have their feelings hurt? Can someone help me understand the other side of this without calling me names or labeling me as a way of discounting everything I say?
+Bill Wagner My initial quick response might be that while someone makes the choice to engage in addictive behaviors, most of the time they are using it to self-medicate some other problem. And again, while it is a choice, it's also a choice to take a prescription to deal with back pain or some other medical ailment. Maybe that's way off, or a bad analogy. I'll try to think about it some more... I agree, it's not a disease in the way that cancer is, but it is a disease.
I find it to be a disease in the way that if you continually walk on a broken leg for a year you'll get crps (an incurable nerve disease). you may have the option to say no, but we all sin and make stupid decisions some more drastic then others.
+Will Goodrich I understand exactly what you are saying. As a Mormon, I believe in that which is greater than me to heal me and make that which is weak strong.
The issue I am looking to address is choice. So many times those who attempt to lovingly support addicts enable the continual bad behavior by rationalizing it by calling it a disease.
I don't deny the science. I am seeking a new word by which we can define these kinds of conditions which are brought about primarily by choice. Christ says in 3 Nephi 27:29 ...for he that askesth shall receiveth; and unto him that knocketh it shall be opened.
This implies action and choice. Either we choose to follow Christ or choose to follow the ways of man. Christ will not force us to choose good.
By that same path, we choose to do those things which bring about consequences. Choosing to look at pornography forces the Spirit away. Resulting in lack of guidance and we need outside help to return to God via the Atonement.
Repentance requires accountability. I am saying I need a different word to help myself and others understand the inherent accountability we have for certain conditions like addiction. Calling it a disease gives people an easy way to rationalize away their role in their situation.
I believe if we can change the word we can change the perception of the condition and provide a simpler path thru the pain back to Christ.
+Bill Wagner You're correct that you do not fully understand the nature of addiction. Often those who form addictions do so before they are consciously aware they are making a choice. Many with severe addictions have been deeply emotionally wounded and did not have the spiritual maturity to turn to Heavenly Father for help as they struggled with the traumas they were experiencing and were so hurting when they began making bad choices that any solution seemed viable. If you have ever experienced intractable chronic pain you will easily understand a persons willingness to try anything proffered that could make the pain end, indeed addiction to [prescribed pain killers is a fairly simple addiction to understand. Emotional pain is not as visible to those around the wounded soul as physical pain is. The response to chronic intractable emotional pain is similar to that of physical pain. I found this video very helpful in understanding the physical aspect of addiction.
+Bill Wagner How about "Self Inflicted Addiction" or "Self Inflicted Disease."
If I pull my Kimber 1911 45ACP pistol out and shoot myself in the foot, I have a self inflicted gun shot wound. The big question for this is was it accidental or intentional? As SocietyofEnoch pointed out, it may not be my fault the accident occurred, but the results are the same none the less. Treatment is required. I'm sure the pleasure center of the brain is not strong enough to overcome the pain of a gun shot wound. So this is not an example of an addiction.
We MAY start with that choice to "Self Inflict" ourselves, or it could be because of something else. Especially with prescription drugs. But many times it is just our choice. I can't see any case where viewing pornography fell upon us without our consent. nor alcohol. nor recreational drugs. Those are Self Inflicted Addiction or Self Inflicted Disease. But once you do have it you have to have help to overcome that disease.
Some times good people make bad choices...
thanks for sharing this wonderful video.
So is there any neuro-science regarding time abstinence for specific addictions?
ie, from last drink or last meth pipe to neurological recovery?
How long does it take for the brain to fully heal? Research suggests 2-3 years of recovery results in a healthy brain. Remember, it's about recovery, not just white-knuckled sobriety.
This is quite fascinating.
Excellent.
thank you
Narrator: the midbrain overpowers the frontal cortex and takes control.
Also narrator: addiction can never be used as an excuse to escape responsibility for our choices and our actions.
Me: *visible confusion*
Because the frontal cortex, together with your faith, can still overcome the drive of the midbrain. But this is strenuous and difficult, so it's easy to just not fight it. That's the source of your confusion---and is also why someone who is addicted needs help, which the Savior can give. Prayer is a mighty antidote to the cravings.
@@MeredithALane Thanks for the advice.
This was so good! Thank you!
💛💛💛💛💛💛💛💛💛💛💛
Finally, a God -send. And I can share with people who are not interested in anything overly religious ...Well done, thank you.
When we are children often times out family looks at our attempts to express our emotions as an annoyance. This teacher us that it is unacceptable to be angry, sad, dissappointed, lonely, so on so forth. This unhealthy suppression of our emotions is the root of addiction. Later on these bottles up emotion gain turbulence with the need to be expressed. Taking drugs or alcohol, or sex is a way to numb the impressed emotions and bypass into the pleasure chemicals the brain produces as a result. A big part of being cured of addiction is learning to express those emotions along with prayer and working with priesthood authority. Remember as the season's so it is with the landscape. There is a time for peace and war for love and hate. Give your emotions their day and time and don't expect for it to remain summer all year round.
Key!
This was very helpful to me
Great Video
This is amazing!
This is so true! I like this clip because it is scientific !
I find this video very intrinsic.
Beautiful science and words, solution?? 12 step program.
Thanks. I learned a lot!!!
If a non-Christian is an addict who has been clean for a while and is yet struggling, what should he do first? Take the discussions so that references to prayer and God helping him make sense or just jump directly into the church's 12 step program? I have a friend I'd like to help, if I can.
+KE Disbrow Anyone is welcome to attend the Addiction Recovery Program meetings. This link will help them locate a meeting in their area: addictionrecovery.lds.org/find-a-meeting?lang=eng
+KE Disbrow Anyone is welcome to the 12 step program. I bring a non member friend to it and he says it has helped me more then AA meetings have.
+KE Disbrow I'd say both lol we all need all the help we can get right? :) but what ever he's willing to do that the church offers it will help him, and that goes for anyone :)
+KE Disbrow : In the 12 Step Programme outside LDS they also work with turning our lives over 'to God, as we understand Him.' Hope that helps. x
+KE Disbrow There are many 12 step fellowships around the world. I believe THE 12 steps are recovery, nothing more, nothing less, nothing else. No matter what the addiction or beliefs of the individual when they begin to "follow the path" a some point the person changes. You cannot not change when honestly and thoroughly take the 12 steps. So for me, I'm sober today and have changed inwardly as a result of taking the steps. Also please remember, step 2 of THE 12 steps says, "Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity." To take step 2 all I must ask myself is do I now believe or am I even willing to believe that there is a power greater than me. That's all. I know a guy who has been sober 8 years and his higher power is a can of AJAX. Now, honestly, I think that is crazy but then again I've never tried it so how would I know? Anyway THE 12 steps is a spiritual program of action, your friend doesn't have to be affiliated with any specific religion. The realm of the spirit and roomy and all inclusive, never exclusive or foreboding. We let others follow their heart in this matter of God which will become personal to them. Our conception of God, no matter how inadequate is enough to make a beginning upon which a wonderful and effective spiritual structure can be built. The important part is that we take the 12 steps the best we can, our higher power (whether we know it or not) does the rest.
this is outstanding information. thank you very much!
Well explained. Thank you.
Excellent! Where can I get a transcript of this video?
Excelent and inspiring explanation. It would be great to have this video in other languages
Hold to the rod brothers and sisters
I had many addictions drugs food promiscuity, it all came to ahead with prison and nearly taking my life, so I turned back to Jesus as a last resort in prayer I cried like I had never cried before and asked him to take these burdens and any dark entities attached to me, I made a covenant with the Lord that if he took this burden, I would turn to him in all things then rely on his knowledge rather than my own, and that I would serve him for all eternity and build up the kingdom of heaven here on earth. Upon saying Amen I felt a huge weight lift of my shoulders and it was a personal revelation that I had never felt before, I’ve been clean 2 months I feel joy and light filling me up, and I’m turning back to the lord and I feel so grateful and am aiming for the temple, thank you thank you thank you my Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost I love you, and I say these things in the name of the Son, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Thank you🤒💯
how long can it take for the brain to stop craving both minimum and maximum does everyone know?
Recovery from addition puzzled me for many,many years. I can remember the first time I felt high from a drug.I was about 8 years old and a Dr. prescribed Benadryl at bedtime so I could sleep white suffering from an allergy. Even though I knew nothing about drugs way back then I immediately felt what is now called a "buzz" and I liked the feeling. There was no peer pressure ,or any other outside influences but rather like something just clicked in my body. But I digress years later I tried alcohol and the feeling was extremely intense much more so than my peers who couldn't believe I could get drunk so quickly .And looking back I can see how my brain must have been wired differently . I would stop but if I went beyond 3 drinks my whole personality would change .I became addicted for about 20 years and tried everything including pleading with my Heavenly Father for help and to make this story short I switched from Vodka to beer which kept me from going through the DTs and I didn't like the taste so little by little I cut down until I didn't need it physically anymore and I am amazed to this day. It wasn't until today when I heard the brain takes time to heal and it is something so simple but so true. Just as a burn or wound must heal to stop hurting the brain has been hurt by drugs and when you sop hurting it, it heals! It took me a year and I didn't have to go back to re-hab to heal. Nature took over and slowly my brain healed, even though the death of my youngest son, my father , and my be-loved companion dying all in the short time of three years I didn't crave a drink! And only do now on rare occasions such as the anniversaries of their deaths, but it passes very quickly, I am trying to help my daughters understand how I finally quit on my own after trying every program you can think of but I didn't understand until just now that my brain healed and it is as much of a miracle to me as Lazarus returning from the dead. Try to look at everyday as if you have been in a car accident which damaged your brain and do what you can to help it heal but you must give it time ..say a year ,but really that is no time at all when you are healing from a fatal brain disease PS It took me 30 years but I made it to the Temple in Nov 2016!
@@SuzzyStohelit Thanks for your story I finally found something that I know is going to work. I'm excited and hopefull. It makes perfect sense. Bless you, sister in Christ.
Did this guy write a book, I need help too
Hi Joanne, thanks for your comment. Despite the hopelessness you feel, recovery from addiction is possible through Jesus Christ and His Atonement. We invite you and anyone else interested to join the Addiction Recovery Program, a process of studying and applying the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ to find the power to recover from addiction. Learn more and find a meeting here: addictionrecovery.churchofjesuschrist.org/home?lang=eng
Can't say I agree with everything said, but a nice video anyway.
exelente!!!
wow fascinating keep videos like this coming I'm eating 'em up :)
excellent video. thanks a lot. but I have a question. is it good to take drugs recommend by a psychiatrist?
I would not refer to random UA-cam commentors for advice instead of your doctor with a PhD. But yes, there are a lot of people who have gotten benefit from using medication. This is purely my anecdotal evidence but I've had a lot of success using it.
Many addicts will run like he " if you mention God. Many addicts have been harmed by "Church" it takes an addict to help an addict.
Well said 💐
I think it's actually the mentality of the addiction that wires the brain and not the brain itself causing the mentality. Also the mice could have been just a reflection in reality of us and this psychological addiction rooted in anxiety and not any particular substance.
+guyoflife I think it is also very difficult to determine what is physiological, spiritual, and emotional. The studies on the brain over the last 10-15 years have been extremely helpful in giving more insight in how the brain works and how it affects behavior & visa versa. However, we still don't have all of the answers. I suppose the best thing to do is try to sort out what information we can use to help us achieve our goals and feel/become healthier (in every way). :)
when working on issues like this I would suggest working on the mental/emotional side as the most fundamental part. Understanding your anxieties. While working up the transition of physical aspects such as diet, exercise and so forth.
+guyoflife Where does the mentality come from though? Not the brain?
You have no mentality without the brain.
***** You believe that and that's fine. I say the brain is only a channel for the mind. The placebo effect curing severe terminal illness seems to agree with me too..
guyoflife But what is the mind? Is it not born from the neurons firing in the brain? Its not separate from the physical thing.
I surrender my addictions to my heavenly father and Jesus Christ please help me amen 🙏✝️
I believe you But isn’t our choice to try Drugs and or behavior? Specially when we may know that certain things may be addicting? Have we somehow become deceived by the Devil or Deceived by our own selves?
Amen
Quick question. You talked about Drugs but my drug of choice is food. So how can I deal with that? Drug or Alcohol you with alot of work you can just not do them, but with food you have to eat?? Can you point me in a starting place for that?? Thank you!
What happened to the first half of this video? The one I watched was 2 hours long and this video starts is not the entire clip.
I wish I could be a Mormon.
If you live in a country that does not permit be patient. Everyone will have the opportunity in this life or in the next.
If you are a minor, honor your mother and father and in time you will have the choice.
Regardless of your circumstances you can choose now to live a life filled with good choices and enjoy peace of spirit.
Hello- thanks for your comment. There here may be obstacles in your path to becoming a member of the Church, but you can always reach out to your Heavenly Father. He is there, He cares about you, and He will guide you and help you feel His love. We hope you'll one day be able to join us! www.churchofjesuschrist.org.
How can we help?!
We serve in a woman's prison as
ARP leaders and would like to show this video but we cannot take in electronic devices.
we can bring in videos so would like to download this video to show the women. Is that possible?
Dr. McCauley has a longer, more detailed DVD version of this called "Pleasure unwoven : a personal journey about addiction." Look for it online or see if a library near you has it. I've watched it and it's quite good.
I appreciate this. But sitting from where I do, the church cares little about those with addictions. The general leaders care about protecting the church not helping those who struggle. Can you tell me the last time a general conference talk focused on the excommunicated and disfellowshipped? M. Russell Ballard in the mid 80’s. We as a church claim to be concerned about the one, but we aren’t. From the top on down, we don’t. As one with a testimony we have completely failed the one, especially when the one is an addict.
If I could just find a way to overcome the torture of withdrawal I would be cured today.yes I've been to detox 14 times in 10 years there's got to be a way out.in desperation I was thinking to get myself thrown in jail,or a mental hospital for approximately 3 months, knowing that I'd walk out clean then. I just don't know if I want to take such drastic measures.Any other ideas out there? I'm at the end of my rope.
Hi, thanks for tuning in to the video. We're so sorry for the difficulty you've experienced, and we know healing from addiction can be found through the Savior, Jesus Christ. We invite you and anyone else in need to join the Church's Addiction Recovery Program, which supports those recovering from addiction as well as their spouses and family members. Learn more and find a meeting here: addictionrecovery.churchofjesuschrist.org/home?lang=eng
My addiction is facebook playing the game ludo when actually i should be studying 😱 i am trying to keep my focus on heavenly father. At times it's hard 😥
I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I am a 7 year sober methamphetamine addict.
I personally testify that addiction is a CHOICE.
Yes addiction does become a disease but addiction is ALWAYS A CHOICE.
Yes the need to self medicate, be it with food, porn, drugs, alcohol, sex, too much exercise, internet, social media, games, ect, ADDICTION ALWAYS STARTS WITH A CHOICE. Bad choices become addiction because of continued bad choices.
Amen.