Using Plant Medicines in Recovery

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For those struggling with chemsex and crystal meth addiction, especially within the LGBTQ+ community, the traditional 12-step model may not fully resonate. A more compassionate, holistic approach that digs deeper into the underlying reasons for substance abuse can be beneficial.

There are additional layers of shame associated with our community, and that is why I have presented an updated version of the 12 steps (Read www.drdallasbragg.com/newage). While there are specific 12-step programs such as Crystal Meth Anonymous, I'm finding many men who feel even more triggered by the notion of being in a group setting with other gay meth addicts. (I understand not all CMA members are gay.)

Chemsex addiction among gay and queer men is often driven by profound feelings of loneliness and a desire for connection that meth artificially provides. Simply pursuing abstinence does not address these emotional voids. Understanding one's core motivations and embracing the reality of how meth impacts all aspects of life is crucial.

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Authentic Needs Inventory: Make a list of all your deepest needs - for connection, purpose, security, stimulation, peace, etc. Reflect on how you can start meeting each need in healthier ways. How can you meet these needs on your own? How are you possibly temporarily meeting these needs through external people and places knowing that is not sustainable?

Experiences like plant medicine ceremonies can provide transformative perspective shifts. These allow for inward reflection, self-acceptance and self-compassion to develop - all integral for walking away from the addiction cycle. Harsh self-judgment after relapses is counterproductive.

A pivotal point in my sobriety journey was discovering a spiritual group of friends who introduced me to ayahuasca. The experience provided me with a truly authentic connection with myself. While I thought meth had introduced me to freedom from shame and a way to 'find my true self', nothing has ever matched my plant medicine experiences.

Experiencing unconditional love from the essence of the Earth was when I viscerally felt the presence of a higher power. Suddenly I felt a part of the collective world around me. Feeling included healed the longing that led me to addiction in the first place.

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Powerful Questions: What underlying emptiness, loneliness, or need was I trying to fill through chemsex/meth use? How has meth and addiction truly impacted my life, relationships, and sense of self over time?

A non-12-step, somatic coaching style focused on emotional, mental and physical health can be highly effective. This approach emphasizes reorienting one's relationship with oneself through self-validation, building self-trust and learning to have empathy for the struggles of recovery. Creating a compassionate inner dialogue is key.

Managing potential triggers proactively is also wise. This includes letting go of toxic relationships, reframing narratives around substance use, and recognizing that both highs and lows provide opportunities for growth when viewed through a lens of acceptance. Anticipating and diffusing triggers with healthy strategies is an important recovery skill.

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Journal Reflections: How can I reframe my story with addiction from one of shame to one of wisdom. You've learned truths that can help immensely moving forward. Craft an empowering new narrative. When you feel triggered, write down what you're sensing in your body and mind in that moment. Explore where that urge is rooted through stream-of-consciousness journaling.

You also may find this document helpful:

Overwriting Patterns Quick Guide (1)

Overwriting Patterns Quick Guide (1).jpg

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Ultimately, healing from chemsex and meth addiction requires looking within to rebuild self-worth, self-support, and an honest understanding of one's authentic needs. An open-hearted exploration of the underlying reasons for substance abuse can allow profound healing to unfold. Self-compassion is essential throughout the oftentimes cyclical process.

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Ceremonial Release: Create a simple ceremony to let go of past narratives and self-judgments that no longer serve you. It can involve writing down what you release on a piece of paper and burning it, a bath ritual, or any symbolic action.

Wow, this week's episode with Coach Andrew Moses was chock-full of great information. I really enjoyed our conversation and he WILL be back!

I'd love to hear your thoughts about this article as well as the podcast. Please feel free to reply and let's have a dialogue!

Love, Dallas 💚

May 2, 2024

Using Plant Medicines in Recovery

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