Believe in people podcast

#56 - Zoe: Self Sabotage, Toxic Relationships, Normalising Substances, British Teenage Expectations, ADHD Challenges, Hospitality Industry Pressures, Addiction & The Journey to Recovery

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Episode notes

In this episode, Matt speaks with Zoe about her journey through substance misuse, mental health struggles, and recovery.

Zoe candidly shares her experiences of growing up in an environment where substance use was normalized, starting with cannabis at the age of 12 and progressing to recreational use of other drugs like pills and alcohol. She reflects on how societal pressures, childhood challenges, and undiagnosed ADHD shaped her behaviours, leading to patterns of self-sabotage and an escape through toxic relationships.

Zoe delves into her time as a chef in high-pressure kitchens, where substance use was part of the culture, and explains how this environment amplified her struggles. She also discusses the turning point in her life - a domestic violence incident that led to her arrest and a temporary separation from her child - prompting her to seek help through ReNew.

Through thoughtful conversation, Zoe explores how early trauma and familial dynamics contributed to her substance use and relationship choices. She describes how therapy, counselling, and personal reflection have helped her break generational cycles of neglect and empowered her to focus on building a better future for herself and her son. 

This episode sheds light on the complexities of addiction, the normalisation of substances in modern society, and the importance of addressing underlying mental health and trauma.

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Believe in People explores addiction, recovery and stigma.

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We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Christopher Tait of the band Belle Ghoul & Electric Six for allowing us to use the track Jonathan Tortoise. Thank you, Chris, for being a part of this journey with us.