Addiction Quote by Brené Brown
““Before conducting this research I thought that numbing and taking the edge off was just about addiction, but I don’t believe that anymore. Now I believe that everyone numbs and takes the edge off and that addiction is about engaging in these behaviors compulsively and chronically. The men and women in my study whom I would describe as fully engaged in Wholehearted living were not immune to numbing. The primary difference seemed to be that they were aware of the dangers of numbing and had developed the ability to feel their way through high-vulnerability experiences.””
About This Quote
The speaker reframes numbing as a universal coping mechanism, distinguishing addiction as compulsive, chronic engagement, and notes that wholehearted individuals are aware of numbing’s risks and can navigate vulnerability.
In simple terms: Numbing is universal; addiction is compulsive
Key Takeaway
Awareness mitigates numbing’s harm
Themes
numbing
addiction
vulnerability
awareness
compulsion
psychology
Mood
insightful
hopeful
Type
psychological
motivational
When to use this quote
- addiction counseling
- mindfulness retreats
- clinical research
- self‑help groups
- educational seminars
Key Concepts
numbing behavior
wholehearted living
Practical Applications
- addiction treatment programs
- resilience training
Questions to Reflect On
- What practices help transform numbing into conscious vulnerability?
- How does awareness change compulsive habits?
