What happens when a relationship to alcohol that once felt easy and enjoyable begins to feel complicated?
In this episode, Richard shares his experience of becoming torn about alcohol and how he used parts work to think through and reshape his changing relationship with drinking. Following a health scare, Richard knew something needed to change, but stopping outright didn’t feel simple or right. Instead, he found himself navigating competing inner voices: parts that valued pleasure, routine and social connection, alongside parts that wanted health, clarity and self-respect.
This episode explores how parts work can help us move away from shame, rigidity and willpower-driven change, and towards curiosity, compassion and inner collaboration.
To deepen your understanding of parts work, you may want to listen to Episode 9: What is Parts Work and Why Is It Important?
In that episode, a therapist explains the original theory behind parts work and offers further insight into how you can use it yourself and how working with a trained therapist can provide additional support.
Listen here:
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-torn-podcast/id1843063117?i=1000743928274
We want to offer a range of resources alongside this episode, depending on where you or someone you care about may be in relationship to alcohol.
For those rethinking their drinking:
For those actively worried about dependent or addictive drinking — their own or someone else’s:
Important note: This episode does not replace professional support. If alcohol use is causing harm or feels out of control, reaching out for specialist help can be an important next step. If you’ve ever felt torn between what you enjoy and what you sense might need to change, this episode offers insight, reassurance, and a compassionate framework for navigating that inner conflict.
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Find more stories, resources and hope on all things inner conflict at our website www.thetornproject.com
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To reach out directly, use the contact form on our website.
Find out more about The Torn Project team.
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