Disconnected Brains: How isolation fuels opioid addiction | Rachel Wurzman | TEDxMidAtlantic

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  • čas přidán 16. 05. 2024
  • Addiction to opioids is now officially a national emergency. But why are addiction rates spiking and what can we do about it? Neuroscientist Rachel Wurzman shares new research about how the brain reacts to opioids, replacing the sense of community and belonging human beings are losing. We are beginning to understand that solving the opioid epidemic will require us to focus on social factors surrounding those addicted. Dr. Rachel Wurzman is a Fellow with the Center for Neuroscience and Society, and a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Neurology with the Laboratory for Cognition and Neural Stimulation at the University of Pennsylvania.
    Rachel also currently serves as Director of Science on the Board of Directors for SeekHealing, a non-profit whose mission is to reduce addiction relapse cycles. Rachel is the author of over 20 peer reviewed journal articles and book chapters on various topics
    in developmental, cognitive, and systems neuroscience, neuroethics, and science policy.
    Previously, Rachel served as an Intern in the Science Division of the Office of Science and Technology Policy in the Executive Office
    of the President of the United States, a Neuroscience Scholar Program Fellow with the Society for Neuroscience, and a Researcher
    in Residence in the Neuroethics Studies Program of the Pellegrino Center for Clinical Bioethics at Georgetown University. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

Komentáře • 481

  • @cnacks4835
    @cnacks4835 Před 2 lety +149

    Opiates feel like love. My addiction is based on my lack there off. The irony is as you go deeper down the opiate rabbit hole you get farther and farther away from others.

    • @lynnwilliams8295
      @lynnwilliams8295 Před 2 lety +14

      Yes! They feel like the warm hug that you so desperately need. I got on them while living with an abusive spouse. Then I lived with a relative I took care of with dementia and the abuse continued (even though the person didn’t mean it and couldn’t help it) I was abused by family who gave me little support or help. I was so lonely and broken I needed love. I needed that warm hug and unfortunately I found the closest thing I could find which was the feeling I got on meds. I only realized the depths of the cause of my addiction recently. I thought I was weak and that I was genetically predisposed. Maybe I am but the need for love and acceptance is what really fueled it

    • @krystalriley10
      @krystalriley10 Před 2 lety +6

      Exactly. It gives you a calm feeling even knowing that you have them with you right next to you ready to love you and make you feel good.

    • @krystalriley10
      @krystalriley10 Před 2 lety +6

      Sad. At one point it was my only friend and even if i left it in the car i would freak out. Very sad time in my life glad to be getting passed that. Lets just say i was really lonely

    • @C0MPL3X423
      @C0MPL3X423 Před 2 lety +8

      This is so true. I’ve explained that opiates feel like a warm embrace. You can literally feel it wash over you. The sense of calm, the anxiety washes away. Unfortunately in the long run it makes it all worse. This is very insightful 💕

    • @juansantoyo9170
      @juansantoyo9170 Před rokem +1

      I found out about Dextromethorphan and ever since I been addicted

  • @tmc3567
    @tmc3567 Před 3 lety +44

    The irony of my existence is i feel spiritually connected to everyone yet totally alienated.

  • @WaismannMethod
    @WaismannMethod Před 4 lety +176

    Loneliness is one of the most aggravating symptoms of depression, which fuels addiction.

  • @lisacolbert5987
    @lisacolbert5987 Před 5 lety +299

    "The opposite of addiction is not sobriety. The opposite of addiction is Connection."

    • @annalisette5897
      @annalisette5897 Před 4 lety +14

      Respectfully, why do addictions break up good, connected families and relationships? And as I put in a comment above, when I was young it seemed almost all adults smoked cigarettes. It was the social feel-good, get-to-know-you, sharing, instant friendship activity. People participating in that warm, friendly activity became just as irrevocably addicted to nicotine as any lonely, disconnected people have become addicted to other substances.
      (I am a journalist researcher and have the means to support medical research which I intend to do in the area of addiction. I am most sincere in my question and comments.)

    • @ohthefuture7618
      @ohthefuture7618 Před 4 lety +3

      @@annalisette5897 I wish you nothing but success in that endeavor.

    • @annalisette5897
      @annalisette5897 Před 4 lety +1

      @@ohthefuture7618 Thank you! Last week I began actual work on my plan.

    • @ohthefuture7618
      @ohthefuture7618 Před 4 lety +5

      @@annalisette5897 Great to hear. I got clean in 2011 after spending all of my 20s in the cycles of opiate addiction. While doing awesome, now, those cycles are still happening in other less harmful ways.
      Interested to read any results of your study or even help by sharing my story or something

    • @annalisette5897
      @annalisette5897 Před 4 lety +2

      @@ohthefuture7618 Thank you so much! I plan to get my own crowd funding site and let scientists in the field post their needs, if their goals meet my criteria. It will all have to be physiological research, no talk therapy or political action. There are some really interesting findings out there but it looks like lots of the best work does not get funding. I have further resources to make sure full funding is available. My financial advisers say my plan is solid.
      I studied biochemistry but do not have a degree. In the years since I studied, things have moved ahead so fast it is unlikely I could catch up at my age. Middle age, so to speak. So I look at my strengths. I have great resources, am related to some famous people and I am a journalist. I can read a scientific paper and have some idea if research is likely to succeed. As a writer I can push the best work in the field. By crowd funding I can expand my capabilities.
      IMO, addiction changes brain chemistry and sometimes structure, perhaps permanently, perhaps not always. The easiest segment to study is nicotine addiction because so many people are so easily addicted to nicotine and the mechanisms are not as complex as with some other substances. It is quite a public health industry at this time to provide "smoking cessation" at great cost to the system, agony for the patient and little success. After all the effort many people return to smoking long after detox, living 'smoke-free', etc. Why? How can the brain be healed? (From all addictions.)

  • @Therealpiratepete
    @Therealpiratepete Před 5 lety +208

    My God! I found myself being described in this fascinating talk. I’m addicted to opioid painkillers, and I live very much alone. This is a real eye-opener.

    • @kevinburrell4327
      @kevinburrell4327 Před 5 lety +2

      Pete Randall Yes it's true.

    • @RardTangler
      @RardTangler Před 5 lety +15

      Pete Randall, I was too. Well, let me take that back; I will _always_ be addicted to opioids, but I'm in treatment and am clean. I hope you receive treatment, and get well soon.

    • @kevinburrell4327
      @kevinburrell4327 Před 5 lety +37

      Addy White I don't think you should listen to the medical community or anyone telling you once an addict alway an addict. People can speak curses over you; basically a trap to keep people falling and the the medical community is good for telling people this so that they can keep getting paid. Listen to what God tells you. He loves us all and once free always free. God bless you with love hun.

    • @MDOY79
      @MDOY79 Před 5 lety +15

      I have a food addiction, binge eating. I would be interested to know if food acts on similar receptors in the brain? I have also recently noticed that when I spend time with my best friend or have company, I feel more content and less likely to need to binge.. this is so fascinating to me.

    • @diademglow3429
      @diademglow3429 Před 5 lety +10

      Try to get on Subutex, it saved my life in the sense that it got me off the drugs that would have killed me.

  • @tamsin1969
    @tamsin1969 Před rokem +20

    As an addict for over 35 years, and having ptsd which is isolating, this makes so much sense. I'm actually withdrawing from methadone now. Hoping this time I'll make it, and I will remember this talk. Thank you.

    • @brodielynn5273
      @brodielynn5273 Před rokem +1

      I hope you make it this time as well!! Sending much love your way…wishing you all the very best 🖤🖤

    • @mikemiller659
      @mikemiller659 Před rokem +3

      I'm currently using h and have been for 26 yrs. I live alone with a companion dog. ive tried the Mdone detox but when reaching a Low dose and became clean I Could Not sleep..My Only escape. the boardum loneleness day after day.

    • @jongrotrian5067
      @jongrotrian5067 Před 7 měsíci

      @@mikemiller659imo you were lowering your dose too fast once you got to the lower doses. I had to go SLOW once I was below 50 mg/day. I hope you’re in a good place now.

    • @oscarfranciscoramirezdelpr576
      @oscarfranciscoramirezdelpr576 Před 5 měsíci +2

      You're not the only one. You've inspired me to do the same thing you're about to do, and that is, to get away from meth and go back to social interaction.

    • @emma-vn3nl
      @emma-vn3nl Před 3 měsíci +1

      Sending you so much love.

  • @cachebovine3719
    @cachebovine3719 Před 2 lety +23

    As an opiate addict, let me say that every point she made hit the target dead on. And i've never felt more hopeless.

    • @kelliborg4090
      @kelliborg4090 Před rokem

      This is one lecture that made sense. Keep reaching out to people.

    • @allisond.46
      @allisond.46 Před rokem

      At least now you have something that might work.

  • @JohnnyBailey-jq1qm
    @JohnnyBailey-jq1qm Před 4 lety +25

    This is so true . People these days feel lonely even when we aren’t alone . The social connection isn’t there anymore even DURING social interaction. From the lack of intimacy and not being in the moment .

    • @cantgetrightwithtravislloy2267
      @cantgetrightwithtravislloy2267 Před 4 lety +4

      N that's due 2 everyone being glued 2 their phone or sme other form of technology

    • @JohnnyBailey-jq1qm
      @JohnnyBailey-jq1qm Před 4 lety +2

      CAN'T GET RIGHT WITH TRAVIS LLOYD that’s right

    • @mikemiller659
      @mikemiller659 Před rokem +1

      Its the Lack of Genuine interaction, people are afraid to expose their feelings & thoughts to straingers

  • @gingermace5703
    @gingermace5703 Před 5 lety +34

    Her study is amazing ! A science-backed study of how people addicted to drugs might need repetitive social interactions to curb their 'need' for drugs. All drug treatment centers ought to have social and craft clubs as part of their drug treatment plan, and maybe so should places outside of drug treatment places too, with those on drugs or tempted to use drugs encouraged to 'join up' and do something that interests them repetitively. A hobby or passion should be their drug.

    • @willstanton6169
      @willstanton6169 Před rokem

      @monsieur ferluci
      EXACTLY.
      AA, NA, CA, etc., I don't THINK, is all about sitting in a room, talking, listening to others, and drinking coffee....
      There is a whole WORLD out there, and countless things to do IN that world....with others.
      Just a thought.

  • @rickgreen7393
    @rickgreen7393 Před 5 lety +70

    As a Chemical Dependency counselor and addictions researcher …. this is the first academic presentation that emotionally moved me to tears... tears of hope and empathy. I have known intuitively the concepts Rachel speaks to … but her research validates my observations. The emotional part is that I know the horrible pain of disconnection and research like this may lead some day to prolonged disconnection in addiction (during early treatment and post treatment) being a thing of the past.

    • @pokr122
      @pokr122 Před 5 lety +4

      I’m an opioid addict. Rick Green. I have isolated myself from everyone in my life. I would be so pissed off if I had a chance to die and someone ruined it. My isolation and addiction have grown together quite nicely. She is EXACTLY precise in every statement pertaining to my personal situation. Even my dog senses my despondency. Also, I’m getting dumber each week. I tweeted the same in 2014. ‘ I am losing 2 IQ points very month’. Wow, somehow zombied my way through 4 years.

    • @rickgreen7393
      @rickgreen7393 Před 5 lety +8

      I am so sorry for the pain you feel. I don't know what you have tried to find treatment and relief. Please don't consider taking your life as an option. New treatments are becoming available. I have seen people with cases similar to you, go on to feel whole again. I would really recommend you look at NAD IV therapy as a starting place. There are many videos on youtube about NAD (or NADH or NAD+) for detox, addiction, brain repair, and treating psychological and physical disorders. My intuition tells me this will help you. Wish you the best. Don't quit before the MIRACLE happens.

    • @jonasmoerman5187
      @jonasmoerman5187 Před 5 lety +3

      Same here, speed and having nobody goes hand in hand...

    • @rickgreen7393
      @rickgreen7393 Před 5 lety +4

      Jonas, as with Dogmanaz, I am so sorry for your suffering. Please don't give up hope. There are over 22.5 million Americans who have recovered from addiction, and they all are with you. You can call your local AA Central Service Office and they will send someone to help you, and get you treatment if necessary. Don't give up, don't every give up. You are not alone.

    • @RardTangler
      @RardTangler Před 5 lety

      Hi Rick,
      I have a question. I've been receiving treatment for opioid addiction with Suboxone. As you probably know, Suboxone has Nalaxone in it. And I've been experiencing a sort of social disconnect over the last few months. Could this be due to the nalaxone in the Suboxone? It really made sense to me when she said it...

  • @challais1
    @challais1 Před 4 lety +24

    Wow!! I’m studying Bio-Psych in school right now, and I’m 6 years a recovered addict. This makes SO much sense!! Great talk 👍

  • @sundancevermont
    @sundancevermont Před 5 lety +52

    I have watched this 3 times already. I would love to bring her in as a speaker fro the entire State government to hear and learn from. Brilliant research! FinallY!

  • @daronolenus3911
    @daronolenus3911 Před 3 lety +34

    Covid-19 accelerated this pandemic of loneliness.

  • @lbburgett
    @lbburgett Před 5 lety +15

    Thank you. The more people hear this message, the better our world becomes.

  • @amberscottcmt7400
    @amberscottcmt7400 Před 4 lety +17

    So on point. I went into recovery but didn't find social connection there. The more I tried too make friends and didn't succeed, the more prone I was to relapse... Conversely, last year I gave up my drug of choice on my own and felt proud of myself and good about the choice, but I wasn't reaching for connection and feeling denied.
    It's easier to accept being alone than to reach for connection, and be alone because it was not reciprocated. That puts loneliness into hyperdrive... And then to have others in recovery respond to admitting feeling lonely with you just need to get a higher power, feels even worse. I'm fighting hard right now and I know if I had some connection and support it would be so much easier.

    • @brucecaldwell6701
      @brucecaldwell6701 Před 4 lety +3

      I can empathize with you. It's especially hard to connect in this superficial social media world we have today. I don't see it improving ever.

    • @retinapeg1846
      @retinapeg1846 Před 2 lety +2

      @@brucecaldwell6701 I miss 2010. I wanna go back and live there forever.

  • @sa65cn1
    @sa65cn1 Před 5 lety +9

    say what you want about opioids but I for one would not have been able to function without the pain relief I've had for the past 15 years. Recently had to quit because my Dr. retired. I weaned down from three or four a day to one for about a month. The withdrawal was not severe for me but the pain in my thoracic and cervical spine is off the charts! I am back in bed many days a week, I am willing to live with addiction in order to be normal.

    • @a_humphrey1747
      @a_humphrey1747 Před 2 lety

      For real dude im addicted to mine in a wheelchair recovering from a broken neck from bull riding I use em to get up and around and live my life and have way more hope in therapy and am more calm and less worry about my future so I can focus on things right now with no pain aggravating me, i have almost full feeling to my toes but cant move much im doin therapies and im making progress but its slow

  • @JenLyn78
    @JenLyn78 Před 4 lety +7

    Wow...I've never heard what my life has become described so well. She gets it. She really gets me....love, light and we'll wishes to all of you out there struggling like I do EVERYDAY!! Much love to EVERY one out here stuck in this horrendous cycle that has become my life.

  • @lisacolbert5987
    @lisacolbert5987 Před 5 lety +21

    I wish I could meet this woman, thank her , shake her hand and then wouldn't be able to not give her a hug (after first asking her if she'd mind) ... How we treat our opiate addicted fellow man ... In this we are in the Stone Age . Brings to mind how it was acceptable for nurses in the 80's-90's to treat HIV/AIDS patients similarly ... With disdain and smug superiority .

  • @sashabrown6043
    @sashabrown6043 Před 4 lety +11

    She made perfect sense the first time I've never heard anything that makes so much sense about opiate addiction

  • @tinamarietaylor3346
    @tinamarietaylor3346 Před rokem +3

    This is amazing! I am an addict, not opiates but that's neither here nor there... Addiction is addiction. . This is right up there with one of my favorite explanations of addiction.
    The Best Explanation of Addiction I've ever Heard
    Dr Gabor Mate

  • @jonor1337
    @jonor1337 Před 5 lety +7

    It's not the isolation itself. It's the idea of isolation which exists in the mind. The feeling's its presupposed to bring. The idea of what isolation is supposed to be in a society. Isolation is a negative noun. Can also be considered a negative verb. But I would suggest that one could see isolation as a positive. Turn your mind.
    As someone who has suffered for a long time with addiction. It's never the isolation. It's the idea I have in my mind about how I am supposed to feel about it. As soon as I realize that I am creating the suffering by attaching presuppositions to the idea of me being alone, it immediately makes me realize that I am just perfectly fine alone. And I am never really alone for very long. I just take for granted the times when I am not alone. So it seems like I always am alone.

  • @katiemurray9816
    @katiemurray9816 Před 3 lety +13

    This is the best ted talk I have seen. Resonates with me personally as I’m sure many others.

  • @XxXShevampXxX
    @XxXShevampXxX Před 4 lety +11

    I never really thought about it but after my fiance died suddenly in a car accident, I felt extremely lonely and isolated in the aftermath and that's when I started using and abusing pain medication. And the more I used, the more I isolated myself. It was a very vicious cycle and after living in it for years, I thought the only way I would escape it was through death. I'm extremely lucky that I somehow never accidently overdosed but I did try to take my own life twice and I remember both times waking up and feeling relieved to be alive but also terribly disappointed to be alive. It was a truly horrible point in my life.

    • @brodielynn5273
      @brodielynn5273 Před rokem

      I’m so sorry for your loss…and the experience that followed 💔. I hope your heart found healing… ❤️‍🩹

  • @DeeJayBonk
    @DeeJayBonk Před 5 lety +4

    Spot on! Bravo and thank you for all you have done.

  • @ozparl6732
    @ozparl6732 Před 3 lety +3

    Rachel Wurzman yours awesome, its people like you that make this world turn. Thank you

  • @melissacalhoun2631
    @melissacalhoun2631 Před 3 lety

    Thank you for your research... I blinked right away....People like you are the lights people like me need.

  • @mollydoe
    @mollydoe Před 3 lety +23

    "Well now I'm out of prison, and I got me a friend at last
    He dont steal or cheat or drink or lie
    Well, his name's codeine
    He's the nicest thing I've seen
    And together, we're gonna wait around to die" - Townes van Zandt

  • @ryanbrennan8143
    @ryanbrennan8143 Před 5 lety +5

    Wow amazing video. This is something I will never forget.

  • @veritydrew498
    @veritydrew498 Před 4 lety +4

    Wow thank you, this talk really helped me to see a pattern that I have been living for the last 3 weeks. & I now feel like I can get out of it.

  • @Orthodoxi
    @Orthodoxi Před 5 lety +4

    Very beautifully done and informative video. I totally connect. 🙏😊

  • @1known2
    @1known2 Před 3 lety +2

    Wow this lady is soooooo smart and her “ one liners “ are so good and so on point.

  • @th-rd2xh
    @th-rd2xh Před 5 lety +8

    That is why you need to connect to The Life Giver and Creator. Yes we need to Connect to someone Higher than just getting high.

  • @as-ef7sr
    @as-ef7sr Před 3 lety

    I can't put into words how spot on Dr. Wurzman is with this

  • @beccanertia619
    @beccanertia619 Před 5 lety +8

    EXCELLENT!! This take NA's "Get involved" suggestion to a scientific level. Knowledge is power. We should educate ourselves and know what we are up against.

  • @angiedixon8017
    @angiedixon8017 Před 4 lety +6

    I am acutely aware of my loneliness. I would not know where to begin with social interaction. I tried church for a while. I just felt alone in a crowd. I live in a small town in the country. For many years Ive suffered from neck, back, leg and feet pain. I have a variety of diagnoses and am in pain management. Everyone talks about addiction...why doesn’t anyone acknowledge that the pills help with actual physical pain? In my experience, physical pain is extremely isolating. I find the science from this talk fascinating and it rings true. Thank you for the insight... now... who to see, where to go, and what to do?

    • @4estdweller4ever
      @4estdweller4ever Před 3 lety

      I have lots of physical pain too. I am food addicted. Some of my pain is from weight, but I noticed when I buckled down and stopped all sugar, flour, sugary fruits and processed foods my pain went away. All that causes inflammation in your body. I watched a ton of videos on CZcams by Dr Eric Berg and the information got drilled into my head and gave me the motivation to do it. I lasted about 3 months and I really saw the difference. Depression knocked me out of my tracks. Also you might consider kratom. You can learn about it on Netflix in a movie called Leaf of Faith. I tried it. It works too. Best regards

  • @lucaschad
    @lucaschad Před 5 lety +4

    Great talk Dr. Wurzman. Thank you for informing the public about your research and findings.
    From social rewards and even to exploring social + psycho-spiritual intervention the solution you argue successfully is a more immersive and modern AA/NA in some sense.
    This is a compliment.

  • @michellem7628
    @michellem7628 Před 5 lety +14

    Absolutely Awesome! Thanks for sharing. This confirms my undergraduate research in social connections, stigma, and recovery from addictions. :)

  • @katrolinka89
    @katrolinka89 Před 2 lety

    This is what I was looking for. Thank you!

  • @jrockk1905
    @jrockk1905 Před 2 lety +4

    Never stop believing in yourself because at the end of they day when ur brushing ur teeth looking back at same person you looked at before you started to brush, is the NUMBER ONE ;; on your list and should always be taken care of first, all of the beautiful ladies out ther treat yourself like the queen you are and deserve, and all the king’s out there do the exact thing.. and before you know it sooner then later YOU will start to put the broken pieces back together slowly but surely , that’s why each day that you are clean is a damn celebration and don’t you forget that.. thanks for reading and I hope all that are suffering right now make the right decision to ask for help.. but we all know acknowledging the problem is the first step to a wonderful life you only dreamed of.. and I guarantee that/. God bless everyone xoxo jay

  • @nathandcruze8507
    @nathandcruze8507 Před 3 lety

    Thanks Dr. Wurzman, that information was great.

  • @HipHopCantSaveMe
    @HipHopCantSaveMe Před 5 lety +39

    This was a bit surprising. I've been dependent on opiates for over a decade and I'm very isolated. I never put two and two together.
    It all makes sense though.
    Buprenorphine is my best friend.

    • @jacobhines5583
      @jacobhines5583 Před 5 lety +3

      Subs don't really get u high

    • @ilarious5729
      @ilarious5729 Před 5 lety

      Oh I feel ya!

    • @astrataway7077
      @astrataway7077 Před 4 lety +5

      @@jacobhines5583 They don't until they do.

    • @TheAcenightcreeper
      @TheAcenightcreeper Před 4 lety +5

      Jacob Hines okay, so stop taking them...you may not think you are getting high, but odds are you just havent been off opiates enough to have felt the effects when you went on.
      Stop taking them and see if they arent making you “high” you just dont equate that with the feeling you are getting.
      They are getting you high, just not in the highly pleasurable way you equate, but if they werent doing anything, you would be able to walk away from them

    • @davachi
      @davachi Před 4 lety +3

      subs aren’t sober

  • @salm2135
    @salm2135 Před 5 lety +3

    This is a beautiful ted talk

  • @integratedfinishesllc481
    @integratedfinishesllc481 Před 4 lety +6

    God bless you, I am 31 days off and now I know how to stay clean!
    I bet you will change the world!

  • @tjgallo9357
    @tjgallo9357 Před 4 lety

    absolutely incredible and so, so, very unselfish, from where your own personal journey and tribulations were centered. It really says so much about your character Rachel Wurzman. Please reach out if you get this message, as I would love to be a part of the initiative and I have many ideas on how to implement strategies for the greater good od mankind. Thank you.

  • @liverpoolshines3745
    @liverpoolshines3745 Před rokem

    Thanks to Rachel for sharing the knowledge

  • @Atlantan
    @Atlantan Před 3 lety

    What a superb lady!! I'm indebted to her and the world should be indebted to her...she is headed in the right direction and advancements need to follow.

  • @RobertWilliams-oy1fl
    @RobertWilliams-oy1fl Před 3 lety

    Beautiful speech. It taught me a great deal. ❤️

  • @tomford7463
    @tomford7463 Před 3 lety

    Such a great speaker!! Thank u!

  • @Murf1802
    @Murf1802 Před rokem

    Amazing, Thank you, I'm sick for a long time now. since 1994, everything you stated makes complete sense to me, and you've Givin me Hope to get better! Thank you again❤️

  • @LoveRemains
    @LoveRemains Před 4 lety +17

    I can vouch first hand for this. Ever since I started taking suboxone (opiate/naloxone) I’ve become a complete recluse. It’s been one of the biggest things that bother me about taking this medication. I’m so glad I know now that it’s not me, it’s this medication. Furthermore, ever since being in quarantine from corona virus I’ve had the urge to relapse and use opiates. Before it was manageable, but lately the urge has been getting stronger. Knowing the info from this video I hope it will help to quell the desire.

    • @smamsp
      @smamsp Před 3 lety +3

      You got this I believe in you

    • @kelliborg4090
      @kelliborg4090 Před rokem +1

      So glad you took the time to listen to what she had to say. I am the mother of an addict. Please reach out for a friend. Bless you

    • @Lyssdc12
      @Lyssdc12 Před rokem +1

      Hope you’re doing okay now! 🙏🏻

    • @LoveRemains
      @LoveRemains Před rokem +2

      I am doing better now as I’m back on the road to sobriety (or the next best thing to it -on methadone.) I had relapsed for around a year and couldn’t get back onto the suboxone. The experience has taught me many things I needed to know though, so it wasn’t a total waste of time. I’m more confident in my sobriety and in life overall now. Plus I’m already a lot further in my life’s goals than I was before, as progress was much slower before due to not realizing the things that I needed to but that I now know. So all in all, I’m doing great. Thank you for the kind words, I hope you are all doing well too. 🙂

    • @Lyssdc12
      @Lyssdc12 Před rokem +2

      @@LoveRemains I’m happy to hear that. I’m in recovery as well so I know what you’re going through. All we can do is take it one day at a time! Stay blessed!

  • @luissantiago9905
    @luissantiago9905 Před 5 lety +2

    Amazing information.

  • @sweetpslaseman4564
    @sweetpslaseman4564 Před 11 měsíci

    Thank you so much for ypur insightful and eloquent presentation on a much misunderstood concept. There is causation invoved in addiction and social isolation. It has been misconstrued forever that compulsion is a chosen comdition and not the product of a bodies inate tendency to balance or correct the inadequacy. Please continue making strides in this field. You are necessary and needed.😊

  • @jwp6049
    @jwp6049 Před 5 lety +4

    Brilliant talk. This explains my addiction to nicotine and wine since my separation. I hide away from the world. But I’ve just stopped and I’m feeling better every day. It’s a vicious circle. You don’t want to socialise because you smoke and want wine. So you stay in isolation and stay lonely.

  • @donnalemmo1839
    @donnalemmo1839 Před 5 lety

    Informing!! Thank you

  • @emilyroots23
    @emilyroots23 Před měsícem

    This is amazing information. You hit some very good points about the loneliness we feel and how disconnected we become socially with our friends and family. I have been on suboxone for 8 years now and I just want to get off of it because I am a different person and I want my life back. I have the most wonderful son who deserves so much more than I can mentally handle and it eats at me every day. I miss my social life with my friends and family. I miss dancing the night away and being a free spirit. I am supposed to be staying positive so I am going to finish with this a thank you for your awesome video and your bravery to share your story. You are a bada**!!

  • @NestyPeach
    @NestyPeach Před 5 lety +2

    Thank you!

  • @npasqua
    @npasqua Před 6 lety +4

    I really enjoyed the arc of this talk!

  • @wellfleetscottyl
    @wellfleetscottyl Před 5 lety

    Very good Ted talk, thank you.

  • @fmlincorporatedfmlllcee2958

    You have me super interested in social neuro science now!

  • @khalilrazak6486
    @khalilrazak6486 Před 4 lety +7

    I suffer from debilitating anxiety due to extreme social phobia and therefore prefer being alone yet love opiates.

    • @vamnpire
      @vamnpire Před 4 lety +1

      Me too.

    • @opheliajade1986
      @opheliajade1986 Před 4 lety

      I can relate.

    • @4estdweller4ever
      @4estdweller4ever Před 3 lety

      Dealing with people can just feel like way too much hard work. Disconnecting can feel so much easier. But in the long run everything she says here is true. Isolation can shrink our brain and be deadly.

  • @dsteinerwilson
    @dsteinerwilson Před 3 lety +1

    What a brave and brilliant talk!! We need more of your insights, research and hope! Thank you

  • @kathrinawebb4927
    @kathrinawebb4927 Před 2 lety

    Thank you Your Beautiful and amazing speaking truths that many refuse to

  • @stevewayne6832
    @stevewayne6832 Před 3 lety

    This by far help me understand my problems and questions! Naloxone in my medication is diminishing my social behavior.

  • @paulmerritt8593
    @paulmerritt8593 Před 4 lety +6

    All walks of life are affected. Even very outgoing and happy people get caught up in opioid addiction. Many started with a doctors prescription from an accident or surgery. There are definitely people who end up using to self medicate mental illness as well.

  • @bencampbell4366
    @bencampbell4366 Před 5 lety +3

    Thanks for putting the time in to research this ............ I think the route cause of alot off addictions is either obvious isolation or hidden isolation mentally or both , its sad to me to think somethings sadly cannot be fixed in a persons mental make up through genetics or external factors ( first noticed in childhood or the teenage years ) , addiction can leave people feels its the only remedy,... then to bandage or plaster your thoughts and feelings knowing there just in your make up ( to get abit of time off from ones own mind so to speak) , and that can be the loneliest feeling in the world with your substance of choice

  • @mayamaeru
    @mayamaeru Před 5 lety +4

    This talk is underrated. Thanks Dr. Rachel Wurzman

  • @67marlins
    @67marlins Před 2 lety

    This was an excellent, thorough post - but somewhat over-my-head, a little difficult and probably needs 2 or 3 viewings to fully learn from.
    Thank you however for posting, I appreciate it.

  • @mmanda515
    @mmanda515 Před 3 lety +1

    Great points, makes SO much sense.... thank you for sharing!!! Also, wonder the internal pull to addiction/addictive personality/behavior? I know of some friends, family... who are very addictive 'types' if that makes sense. While others, easily drink & stop.... no matter the drug/strength, take the min. required OR never go over dosage, stopping it.... once it's no longer needed. No matter how loopy it made them, how full of energy, depending... how relaxed w/ other things... could have them ALL at their disposal & still, just... don't. Idk, has to be something there too, imho. So agree w/ the whole 'connection' we all need w/ others. That emotional support, feeling of being heard, of being understood... validated.. just, that soft place to fall. True social connection to others, if isolated... makes one more hopeless, weaker, sicker... not better. When you have a good support system in place, healing IS quicker... you can live, you can actually thrive.... not, merely survive. Thanks for ALL you continue doing. Hope you are staying safe & well. Appreciate your time & sharing all this great info.... w/ all of us.... for "connecting" & in ways many didn't even realize they needed! :)

  • @MayaBDoyle
    @MayaBDoyle Před 5 lety +8

    Great talk! I noticed that I became more isolated when doing Opoids. I definitely took it more due to loneliness but it started innocently after 3 major spinal surgeries. Finally off of it and slowly wanting to go out again. I wish the world were a much safer, happier and more loving place. It'd make things a lot easier.

    • @glenns2077
      @glenns2077 Před 5 lety +4

      I believe the stigma of taking something so widely abused, (News hype), caused many unnecessary shame and embarrassment so not enjoying time with others became an easier choice when faced with deciding which feelings to deal with.....our very own....or those of the invading public opinion.

    • @richardking2422
      @richardking2422 Před 4 lety

      @Frank Heuvelman why the recommendation to western europe?

    • @richardking2422
      @richardking2422 Před 4 lety

      @Frank Heuvelman I saw your comment that you deleted which im not sure why you did that, it was a respectable comment. When you mentioned that the Germans are better conserving (I think is the wors you used) do you mean that you're better at saving money and yourself for important things instead of falling victim to Americas culture of consumerism and disposability? Also something I do not understand because I am not present there, but strikes me in many different emotions is Europes refugee crisis? Is this true. American journalist Dan Harris made me angry in a video he covered... dubbing the Germans "nazis" and their actions as despicable because of them defending their country. This is where I will admit im not educated. But, to me in the video it showed pride and love for ones culture and people, way of life. Wanting to preserve this against foreigners who have no intent on adapting to the way of life you have in Germany as well as each European countries individual ways. There is much much more I have to comment on such a topic but maybe you can help me understand as you replied and deleted your comment quite quickly??

  • @wicky9
    @wicky9 Před 5 lety +4

    True discription now i know why i relapse every time I try but i dont know how to express feeling never did its been 30 years now still can't express my self truly why is euthanasia banned while it can save a lot of ppl from getting hurt constantly. Cause i know there is no help coming and no one will understand but this lady just fitted all the puzzles of my life rt. And now i have some answers maybe but not all yet.
    Tnx an eye-opener truely

  • @sarahrordam4883
    @sarahrordam4883 Před 3 lety

    This woman is amazing

  • @ibogagermanyibogaspirit9352

    thank you to make us aware

  • @HealthyAndrew
    @HealthyAndrew Před 5 lety +10

    I have Tourette’s and used opiates as well. Crazy ! I love this

    • @mongogojjo5944
      @mongogojjo5944 Před 2 lety

      Same. I also isolated heavily during my opioid addiction, didn't wanna hang out with my own brother or closest friends, had no interest even when a very attractive woman invited me out.

  • @alemaldonado98
    @alemaldonado98 Před 5 lety

    Thank you

  • @missheather4487
    @missheather4487 Před 5 lety +1

    Thankyou.. X

  • @Spoony412
    @Spoony412 Před 3 lety

    Please publish this info. I think you got it right on the nail.

  • @kalosagatoss1
    @kalosagatoss1 Před měsícem

    just perfect!

  • @lucasdeschamps9784
    @lucasdeschamps9784 Před 4 lety

    Inspiring!!!

  • @ShedonistaShamanatrix
    @ShedonistaShamanatrix Před 5 lety +1

    Brilliant.

  • @jordanluxford4342
    @jordanluxford4342 Před 5 lety +6

    I instantly, instantly blinked.

  • @StefaniaCastelli
    @StefaniaCastelli Před 3 lety

    I can say without any doubt, that yours is the best analysis of addictions. Human relationships, in my 50 years of fight to fulfill social "normalcy", chem support was the auto medication tool working for me. I'm 56, finally diagnosed as an ADHD patient. The pattern, anyway, didn't change: no Methylphenidate, no "authentical" social interactions with even my family close circle. Have to play as if under medications (a horrible job, the rare times it happens). But what is the "Natural Family"? Why people sharing the same interests you love (I live for these interests and passions) couldn't be more effective than your parents, your bros, and sisters or your nephews? I totally subscribe to your point of view! This is my fifth day of Oxy withdrawal, the therapy I choose to front the Covid19 lockdown and being socially sweet and emphatic with the other lockdown members. Now the lockdown is over in Italy, I've been successful. I scored points over points, among the family, as I managed the emergency and everyone's needs. Now I pay the price. Back alone. And still suffering

  • @truly2special
    @truly2special Před 3 lety +5

    I knew this already but it’s nice to see it explained scientifically. I’m very much so a loner, 100%. Food is my best friend and lover. My boyfriend was dismissive avoidant and cause me to gain 40 pounds in less than a year. All my life I’ve dealt with social isolation and rejection. All my life I’ve used food as the cure. Hence obesity.

  • @justinspykerman
    @justinspykerman Před 2 lety

    I love biology so much in all its amazing areas of study, I so so wish that there was a better and humane way to do experiments in order to better understand this subject. It truly breaks my heart.

  • @robotaholic
    @robotaholic Před 2 lety

    What a beautiful person ❤

  • @emostorm7
    @emostorm7 Před 5 lety +10

    Compulsive spectrum disorders, thank you for that term

  • @deeter983
    @deeter983 Před 4 lety +8

    three months clean

  • @iAmMattN
    @iAmMattN Před 3 lety +2

    The opposite of connection is suffering. We are a social species.. whether we think we're connected or not, we survive as a hive species. But the interpersonal needs of belonging and connection are more than just society, government, stories that make us similar (nation, religion, atheism, etc). Stories that bind us make us thrive in ways other species don't. We need to connect in smaller ways. We need friends, family, or community on a micro level. Without that, we suffer in a way that is stimulation starvation.

  • @felphero
    @felphero Před 4 lety +2

    So, after college I started working from home, rarely saw friends and family, that went on for years, I thought I was absolutely fine being this alone until, yeah suddenly I started abusing some medication and when I realized I couldn't stop no matter what, I had myself commited to get rid of it. Funny enough while at the hospital meeting patients making friends seeing people everyday I felt great, it really was the kinda of thing I didn't realize I was in crazy desperate need of until I had it back, like I've been living with a knife stuck to my shoulder and had grown so accostumed to it I couldn't even realize it hurted so bad until someone pulled it out of me. Our brains are so weird

  • @malekaiwebos3045
    @malekaiwebos3045 Před 4 lety +2

    All the positive social interaction in the world won’t take the place of my beautiful drugs, but this is ESSENTIAL advice for prevention.

  • @tracycabrera1950
    @tracycabrera1950 Před rokem

    I have missed many years with my grandchildren due to isolating myself. And social disconnect even when I am with them. Miss having a normal relationship again. Need my brain to start its healing process

  • @rkrithiv
    @rkrithiv Před 4 lety +6

    Isolation is the cause, and Love is the cure. How beautiful!

    • @navysteve95
      @navysteve95 Před 4 lety +2

      Life in the USA seems to be the reason why we use nearly 90% of the worlds opiates.
      We are also experiencing a 35 year high in alcohol related deaths, and chrystal Meth usage is up for people using opiate blockers for drug treatment.
      I know quite a few people on opiate blockers who switched to chrystal. But yet they are trying to get clean but the hunger wins
      I don't expect different results when I do the same thing over and over. I know what drugs and alcohol do to me, yet I couldn't stop
      Until I could
      Thanks to people who took the time to help me get on my own 2 feet
      10-15-89. Having time in a 12 step fellowship can be lonely. Compassion fatigue also comes into play

    • @SCYN0
      @SCYN0 Před 4 lety

      @@navysteve95 70% isn't nearly 90% dude

    • @superman9693
      @superman9693 Před 3 lety

      I even used drugs when I was in the happiest relationship with my dream girl.

  • @angelasullivan3397
    @angelasullivan3397 Před 5 lety

    Profound.

  • @dianepang808
    @dianepang808 Před rokem

    Fascinating talk. I abuse/ binge drink alcohol to “feel better”. Not every day…..but it’s my go to, quick, easy, way to “feel better”
    It’s addiction. I think I’m trying to soothe the loneliness. Thoughts? Also use food sometimes and would probably use pills, just haven’t tried that yet. Whatever works.

  • @ThisGoose
    @ThisGoose Před 5 lety +12

    Addiction is when you've cut the brakes with the OFC. Socially its from lack of genuine human connections, medically it could be therapy gone awry, genetically its an overexpressiom of Fos B in the nucleus accumbens.

    • @danielreiman4446
      @danielreiman4446 Před 5 lety

      bs your textbooks are meaningless

    • @tjgallo9357
      @tjgallo9357 Před 4 lety +2

      @@danielreiman4446 Why would you be so rude to someone who is clearly trying to add some helpful and valuable information? Even if you don't agree, be a respectful human being Daniel.

  • @shari7497
    @shari7497 Před 2 lety

    Omgahh!!! That is the exact example I use to
    Describe my tics. This is my first time seeing this too!! How cool! I have had Tourette’s since I was 10. I am 37 now 😊

  • @TheAcenightcreeper
    @TheAcenightcreeper Před 5 lety +22

    Gd this is spot on...ask me how I know....

    • @zachtaylor1288
      @zachtaylor1288 Před 5 lety

      Brother, i hear you

    • @duariweiss7188
      @duariweiss7188 Před 5 lety +4

      You know it is spot on when you are tearing up to a TEDtalk.

    • @justinkassel4000
      @justinkassel4000 Před 5 lety

      I’ve been clean for three months now, and got a Vivitrol shot yesterday. There is hope brother

    • @jotty2451
      @jotty2451 Před 5 lety +1

      justin Kassel no side effects from blockading out your endorphins?

    • @kiolube
      @kiolube Před 4 lety

      lEt Me GuEsS yOu Do OpIaTeS? Durrrrrr, your so cringe.

  • @Nicole-ck1nk
    @Nicole-ck1nk Před 5 lety +9

    Wow amazing

  • @jeanpicard1844
    @jeanpicard1844 Před 2 lety

    I have to say that I’ve always been a very extroverted introvert. I love being alone, being home, not being around a ton of people. But about once a week I need to go to a mall, club, a party, bowling, SOMETHING to be around a bunch of people specifically my age.
    But I am perfectly fine being alone. I love it. I get the most stuff done when I’m alone too.
    And I have to say, there was nothing about my past opioid addiction that was driven by me not being connected to people, or being too lonely.

    • @joanncoopertroupe3506
      @joanncoopertroupe3506 Před 2 lety

      I am age 64 i do better a love being alone.. i do take pain meds i do not Over take it. I do listen to these talks as i have considered quitting my pain meds. God Bless anyone whos getting off opiates!! its scary i bern on them since my middle 30's. Today i am age 64. i have my medicine managed. I do not keep it .. that way i do. Not over take it. I HAD IN MY PAST TAKEN TO MUCH .. today i only take what i am to have. I would like to get off the 12 Hour Drug. Stay. on my shorter acting drug. I live with Fibro , Arthritis. Nerve pain in Feet legs hands Arms... i have had weightloss surgery lost a 166 pounds.. its helped me. A. lots.. i have been in tons of Therapy most all my life.. i am very blessed with a supportive Family.. friends!!Thank you for your amazing TED Talk..

  • @byrdsdoityourselfgarage7330
    @byrdsdoityourselfgarage7330 Před 7 měsíci

    I work alone. I’m isolated all day, every day. I struggled with opiates for a while , because when I took them, I felt at ease, and forgot about my loneliness. I think most people struggle with substance abuse of one type or another at least once or at one point in their lives

  • @shiftya4
    @shiftya4 Před 5 lety +5

    I'm 3 years into recovery and can say personally my recovery has only been possible do to psycho spiritual intervention. Awesome talk!

    • @baremax
      @baremax Před 4 lety +1

      I am 6 months. So far recovery sucks.