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The Problem Isn’t the Drugs

What if addiction isn’t the problem — but the solution to something deeper? In this Spark Short, Liz and Michele revisit their powerful conversation with Brenda Zane of the Hope Stream community and unpack one of the most eye-opening reframes of the episode: substance use isn’t usually the root issue — it’s often a coping mechanism for underlying mental health struggles. They explore the “tip of the iceberg” analogy that resonated so deeply with listeners — how drugs and alcohol may be visible, but what lies beneath is often anxiety, depression, trauma (both big T and small t), divorce, bullying, or pain that parents never even knew existed. Liz and Michele also talk candidly about how different today’s landscape is from the one we grew up in. From highly potent THC to fentanyl-laced substances, the risks are greater and harder to detect than ever before. They share stories that are sobering, personal, and deeply relatable. Most importantly, they deliver a message every struggling parent needs to hear: this can happen in loving, stable families. It’s not a parenting failure. And connection — even in the hardest moments — may be the most powerful tool we have. This conversation is honest, compassionate, and ultimately hopeful. In This Episode You’ll Learn: Why substance use is often a coping mechanism — not the core problem The “hot stove” analogy that reframes why kids continue using The difference between big T and small t trauma Why today’s drug landscape is dramatically different from past generations How mental health struggles often start younger than we expect Why high-achieving, “great kids” can still be suffering silently The role connection plays in recovery Why parents must stop blaming themselves How communities like Hope Stream provide support and guidance Resources From This Episode: Hope Stream Community - https://hopestreamcommunity.org/ Brenda Zane’s Podcast & Parent Support Resources  - https://hopestreamcommunity.org/hopes... Keep Sparking If this conversation resonated with you: Follow Spark Me wherever you listen to podcasts so you never miss a Spark Short. Share this episode with a parent who may need hope, reassurance, or understanding. Leave a rating or review — it helps other women in their second act discover the show. Tag us when you’re listening and tell us: What was your biggest takeaway from this conversation?