Ep 61. Impulsivity, genetics and the science behind the disease of addiction, with Aaron Thomas [VIDEO]

In this week’s episode I’m sitting down with PhD student and fellow sober human, Aaron Thomas. Aaron Is currently working in the field of Clinical Psychology – specifically, looking at behavioural neuroscience, or put simply, why people make decisions.

Some of Aaron’s most fascinating research is around the hereditary nature of addiction which he explains can be highlighted through the study of genetic mutations. Aaron shares why addiction is in fact scientifically proven to be a disease and how scientists are researching impulsivity as a marker for predisposition.

Just as interesting as his work, is Aaron’s own personal story of addiction and recovery, which he shares with us in this conversation.

Now this episode is a little longer than usual but there was just so much to gain from this conversation and I know you’ll benefit from having learned something too.

During this chat we cover a range of topics including:

• Carrying existential guilt – 9:42
• How alcohol impacts us differently – 13:00
• Being medicated as a child – 20:00
• An overdose, a psych ward and a spiritual awakening – 30:00
• Addiction is not a moral failure – 41:00
• Building a BIG life in recovery – 45:00
• The second surrender – 50:00
• Unpacking the neuroscience of addiction – 1:00:49
• Psychedelic treatment – 1:13:20

To see Aaron’s Behind The Smile photo, head to Ash’s website.

You can follow Ash and Behind The Smile on IG here: @ashbutterss

If you or someone you know if struggling with mental health or addiction, please reach out for support. Some support options include:

• A healthcare professional

• Alcoholics Anonymous

• Lifeline or Beyond Blue (Australia)

• CheckPoint (global)

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