For too long, Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) has been misunderstood as a failure of willpower—but science tells a different story. In this episode, we dive into the neurological basis of addiction, exploring how AUD rewires the brain and why overcoming it requires more than sheer determination. We’ll debunk myths, highlight the role of medical and psychological support, and offer insight into what real recovery looks like. If you’ve ever wondered why quitting alcohol feels impossible for some, this episode is for you.

Find out about the free resources and all our books available at winspress.com.

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References for today's episode:

Koob, G. F., & Volkow, N. D. (2016). Neurobiology of addiction: A neurocircuitry analysis. The Lancet Psychiatry, 3(8), 760-773. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(16)00104-

Volkow, N. D., Koob, G. F., & McLellan, A. T. (2016). Neurobiologic advances from the brain disease model of addiction. New England Journal of Medicine, 374(4), 363-371. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMra151148

Goldstein, R. Z., & Volkow, N. D. (2011). Dysfunction of the prefrontal cortex in addiction: Neuroimaging findings and clinical implications. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 12(11), 652-669. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn311

Bechara, A. (2005). Decision making, impulse control and loss of willpower to resist drugs: A neurocognitive perspective. Nature Neuroscience, 8(11), 1458-1463. https://doi.org/10.1038/nn158

McLellan, A. T., Lewis, D. C., O'Brien, C. P., & Kleber, H. D. (2000). Drug dependence, a chronic medical illness: Implications for treatment, insurance, and outcomes evaluation. JAMA, 284(13), 1689-1695. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.284.13.168.

Marlatt, G. A., & Donovan, D. M. (2005). Relapse Prevention: Maintenance Strategies in the Treatment of Addictive Behaviors. Guilford Press.

In this episode of Sobriety 101, we’re exploring easy, actionable steps to help you stay sober and strengthen your recovery journey. Whether you're new to sobriety or looking for ways to keep your momentum going, this episode is packed with simple tips that can make a real difference.

And don’t forget, for further support, check out the books by Lewis David and Antonia Ryan. These books are also available as audiobooks. Details are available at winspress.com.

Check out the NEW book SOBER WINNERS from winspress at:
https://winspress.com/books/sober-winners

Sober Winners

A Practical Guide To Thriving Without Alcohol

"Sometimes, the solution to a life problem can be shockingly obvious when it reveals itself. Often, it has been there in plain sight all along, waiting for you to notice it. Giving up drinking can be like that—you struggle for ages, then suddenly the solution pops up and says ‘hello’."

"If you have tried to control alcohol, you might be skeptical. But I have enormous good news. As a professional in treatment services, I have met and worked with former drinkers who found that moment of inspiration and made sobriety look a breeze. They don’t miss alcohol at all. I call them the Sober Winners. This book is about how you can become a sober winner, too."—Lewis David.

"Sober Winners" is the first new book in four years from the bestselling author of "The 10-Day Alcohol Detox Plan" and "Alcohol and You".

For readers new to his work, "Sober Winners" provides a gateway to overcoming alcohol issues forever. For readers who are already fans of his books, it will give fresh perspectives on dealing with alcohol.

Sobriety is not just about winning over alcohol—it’s about winning your life back. And that makes you a sober winner. Your best days are ahead. This book is your guide.

Click a link below for prices in your local currency and to order this book today.

Buy on Amazon.com

Buy on Amazon.co.uk

Welcome to The Alcohol Recovery Show! Today we’re addressing a common challenge in alcohol recovery: negative thinking. It’s easy to feel like you’re missing out, like everyone else is drinking or having fun except you. But those thoughts aren’t the full picture—and with the right mindsets, you can overcome them and thrive in your alcohol-free life.

In this episode, we’ll explore 10 empowering mindsets to help you shift your perspective and stay strong in recovery. From recognizing that you’re gaining more than you’re giving up, to understanding that genuine fun doesn’t depend on alcohol, these mindset shifts will transform the way you see yourself and your journey.

We’ll also tackle thoughts like “I can’t do this forever” and “I’m the odd one out,” reframing them into beliefs that empower you to feel confident, included, and excited about your decision to live alcohol-free.

Drawing insights from the Winspress books, such as The 10-Day Alcohol Detox Plan and Mindfulness for Alcohol Recovery, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you break free from negative thinking and embrace your sobriety with positivity and pride.

Tune in and discover how to reclaim joy, freedom, and confidence—one thought at a time!