Alcohol Detox, Toxic Relationships, and Finding Yourself Again | Kristen’s 15-Year Sobriety Story

Kristen shares how dating a high-functioning alcoholic in her 20s led to a terrifying alcohol detox crisis: after she returned from a family trip, her boyfriend attempted to quit drinking alone, hallucinated, jumped from a moving car, and was hospitalized and placed in a medically induced coma for a week. The experience prompted Kristen to stop drinking, and she has remained sober for 15 years; her ex also stayed sober, though they eventually separated. The conversation explores how addiction fuels manipulation, gaslighting, isolation, and “fixer” dynamics, why alcohol detox can be dangerous, and how limited resources and stigma in healthcare leave partners unsupported. They discuss small steps like tracking drinking objectively, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care. Kristen also describes her current work in leadership development and her book, The Mama Bear Leader.

00:00 Kristen Joins The Show
00:58 Why Share This Story
01:37 High Functioning Alcoholism
03:09 Detox Turns Dangerous
04:32 Aftermath And Sobriety
05:07 Host Relates Her Experience
08:11 Losing Yourself In Addiction
12:07 The Impossible Choice
13:54 The Fixer Trap
16:34 Rationalizing And Mirages
18:58 When It Seems Fine
19:50 When Denial Is A Sign
20:15 One Week Reality Check
21:40 Hidden Bottles And Games
23:53 After Loss Seeking Support
24:46 Hospital Discharge No Plan
26:02 Living In Relapse Fear
27:50 Calling 911 And No Options
29:13 Stigma In The ER
31:23 Small Steps Self Care
33:37 Life After Addiction Story
34:18 Mama Bear Leadership Work
36:38 Book Plug And Farewell

Learn more about Kristen here; www.themamabearleader.com/podcast

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