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How I quit alcohol
255 - Hypervigilance, growing up around alcoholism with Seanna Smith
In this episode of How I Quit Alcohol, Seana Smith shares her powerful story, reflecting on a childhood marked by both an idyllic lifestyle and the unpredictability of having an alcoholic father. Growing up around alcoholism left her in a constant state of hypervigilance, never quite knowing which version of him would appear each day. From the outside, Seana’s life looked perfect: an Oxford graduate, a thriving career with the BBC and Channel 9, a bestselling author, a happy marriage, and four vibrant children. Yet behind the scenes, alcohol was quietly eroding her health, emotional well-being, and sense of self.
With her engaging style and wit, Seana unveils the hidden challenges of her lifelong battle with alcohol, exploring how it impacted every aspect of her life—and ultimately, how she found the strength to change.
Seana Smith website: https://www.seanasmith.com/
Sober Journeys website: https://www.soberjourneys.com/
www.instagram.com/sober_journeys
Going Under, a memoir of family secrets, addiction and escape is published by Ventura Press.
In Australia: Going Under is available in bookshops and online stores in Australia and on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com.au/Going-Under-memoir-secrets-addiction/dp/0645497231/
In the USA: https://www.amazon.com/Going-Under-memoir-secrets-addiction/dp/0645497231/
In the UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Going-Under-memoir-secrets-addiction/dp/0645497231/
Going Under Audiobook: Going Under on Audible, narrated by Seana Smith, click here.
Going Under on Spotify: Listen to Going Under on Spotify here.
I’m attaching a copy of the book cover and a photo of me.
For more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge go to
Follow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol
Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr Cassidy
If you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol.
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