Our behavior can play a large role in our mental health. When we choose to exercise, our bodies release dopamine and endorphins that ultimately make us feel good. This feeling can be extremely rewarding, and can even condition individuals to choose this behavior as a coping mechanism. While exercise can be a positive and healthy way to cope, destructive behaviors like gambling or alcohol over-consumption can result in the same dopamine release, leading to detrimental habits. Unless we recognize what is causing our distress in the first place and begin working on changing our behavior, it’s possible for the cycle of addiction to spiral out of our control very quickly.

Below, we’ll hear Walter recount his struggle with addiction, and witness his journey to recovery.