S1 E5 Alcohol and Marriage: What first led to connection ultimately led to disconnection (and how an alcohol free path brings hope, healing and authentic connection
This episode of Mindful Sobriety The Podcast explores the topic of marriage and sobriety. Jane and Amanda explore the role of alcohol in relationships and the challenges that arise when one partner decides to quit drinking. They emphasize the importance of personal growth, setting boundaries, and being authentic in order to navigate these changes. The hosts also share their own experiences and provide advice for communicating with a spouse who may not be on the same alcohol free journey. The episode concludes with a discussion about the upcoming Bali retreat and the spiritual experiences that can be found in different traditions. In this conversation, Jane and Amanda discuss various aspects of mental health, including understanding mental health, common mental health disorders, stigma and misconceptions, seeking help and support, and finding a therapist or coach. They emphasize the importance of seeking professional help and provide resources for finding a therapist.
Takeaways
Takeaways
- Alcohol can play a significant role in relationships, and quitting drinking can lead to changes in social activities and intimacy.
- Personal growth and setting boundaries are essential for navigating the challenges that arise when one partner decides to quit drinking.
- Open-mindedness and a willingness to explore new spiritual experiences can enhance the journey of sobriety.
- Communication and support from a spouse are important, but ultimately, each individual is responsible for their own sobriety and personal growth. Mental health is an important aspect of overall well-being and should be taken seriously.
- Common mental health disorders include anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
- Stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental health can prevent individuals from seeking help.
- It is important to seek professional help and support when dealing with mental health issues.
- Finding a therapist can be a helpful step in managing mental health, and there are resources available to assist in the process.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Popular Topic
01:09 Alcohol's Role in Relationships
03:14 The Myth of Constant Fun
06:27 Intimacy Without Alcohol
07:53 Taking Responsibility for Personal Growth
08:19 Navigating Changes in Relationships
09:23 Spouse's Drinking Habits
10:39 Codependency and Personal Growth
11:55 Worst Case Scenarios and Coping Strategies
13:10 Emotional Regulation and Riding Out Distress
16:16 Changes in Social Activities
17:48 Deepening Connections and Productive Conversations
20:36 Setting Boundaries and Being Authentic
25:05 Sharing Responsibilities and Asking for Help
28:42 Spouse's Support and Individual Journeys
32:02 Focusing on Personal Growth and Self-Care
35:57 Open-Mindedness and Spiritual Experiences
02:30 Understanding Mental Health
10:15 Common Mental Health Disorders
20:45 Stigma and Misconceptions
30:10 Seeking Help and Support
43:56 Finding a Therapist
44:28 Conclusion
Creators and Guests
Host
Jane W Ballard
Jane Ballard, LCSW-S, CEDS, PMH-C, is a licensed psychotherapist and Alcohol Free Life coach. She is the founder of Jane Ballard Wellness, a private practice offering in-person counseling services in Dallas, TX and virtual individual and group coaching to women in the United States and beyond. After waking up to the realization that alcohol was a barrier to living her purpose, she set out to make information, support and connection more accessible to like minded women.