Addiction Quote by John Bradshaw
“The drivenness in any addiction is about the ruptured self, the belief that one is flawed as a person. The content of the addiction, whether it is alcoholism or work, is an attempt at an intimate relationship. The workaholic with her work or the alcoholic with his booze are having a love affair. Each alters mood to avoid the feeling of loneliness and hurt in the underbelly of shame.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Healing the Addicted Self, 1990
Addiction stems from a broken self‑image; people use substances or work to fill emotional voids and avoid shame.
In simple terms: Addiction is a coping for for a damaged self.
Key Takeaway
Address underlying self‑worth issues.
Themes
addiction
self‑esteem
loneliness
Mood
introspective
empathetic
Type
therapeutic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- support groups
- personal journaling
- relationship counseling
Key Concepts
psychology
attachment theory
self‑compassion
Questions to Reflect On
- What core wounds drive your addictive behavior?
- How can you nurture self‑acceptance?
A Different Perspective
Recovery also requires confronting uncomfortable emotions.
