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SNW Ep 7 Cravings Explained: 3 Stories That Help People Understand Addiction.

Have you ever been told to “just stop drinking” or heard someone say, “If you really loved me, you’d quit”? Maybe someone close to you claimed, “I can stop anytime. Why can’t you?” If those comments left you feeling misunderstood, you’re not alone.

Addiction is often invisible to those who haven’t lived it. Cravings are powerful, emotional, physical, and neurological experiences that don’t respond to logic alone. So how do we help others understand what we’re going through?

We tell stories. Because stories bypass logic and speak to the heart.

In this blog, I’m going to share three powerful stories I often use in counseling and coaching to help people explain what cravings feel like—stories that can build empathy, reduce judgment, and spark meaningful conversations.

Story 1: Beers and Bikinis – A Story of Temptation

Joan was trying to stay sober after a DUI arrest. She stopped drinking, but her husband didn’t. Every evening, he brought home a six-pack—their old ritual—and drank in front of her. She begged him not to, explaining how much it triggered her. He replied, “You’re the one with the problem, not me.”

That’s when I shared a metaphor with her.

That night, Joan sat down with her husband and said:

“Imagine I invited six exotic dancers to live in our home. Every night, they’re flirty, affectionate, and lounging in bikinis—while you’ve promised to stay loyal to me. Do you think that might mess with your head at some point?”

He paused. He got it.

This story, “Beers and Bikinis,” helped him relate to Joan’s temptation on a deep emotional level. It wasn’t about weakness or willpower. It was about environment, habits, and emotional triggers.

Story 2: Living on the Edge – The Feeling of a Craving

Imagine you’re on a romantic getaway—Hawaiian beach, crashing waves, passionate connection. Back at your villa, things heat up. Just as you’re about to reach an intimate release, your partner suddenly says, “Stop,” and walks away.

That unresolved tension? That almost-but-not-quite agony?

That’s what a craving can feel like.

And unlike a moment of interrupted passion, cravings can last minutes, hours, or even days.

I often recommend the song Paradise by the Dashboard Light by Meatloaf to illustrate this experience. It captures the intense build-up and the frustrating cutoff, perfectly mirroring what cravings can feel like.

Story 3: Stop the Sneeze – The Most Universal Metaphor

Ever had a sneeze that almost happens, but doesn’t? That itchy, uncomfortable, pressure-building moment where your body winds up for release—but it never comes?

Now imagine that sensation… for an hour. Or a day.

That’s what a craving can feel like.

If you really want someone to feel this metaphor, hand them a little black pepper and ask them to try not to sneeze. It’s a simple but powerful way to build understanding.

Why These Stories Matter

Cravings don’t respond to logic. They’re not about being weak. They’re about a deep wiring of the brain, emotions, and body. These metaphors help others feel into our experience, not just analyze it.

When friends, family, or coworkers finally “get it,” it can lead to more supportive behavior and stronger relationships.

Takeaway and Action Step

💡 Think of one person in your life who doesn’t understand what cravings feel like. Share one of these stories with them—or send them the link to the episode. Then talk about it. Ask what came up for them.

🌀 Communication and connection can grow from these small, story-based bridges.

In Closing

You are doing something incredibly brave by choosing sobriety—whether it’s for a day, a year, or a lifetime. I see you. I respect the work you’re doing. And I believe that sharing these stories can help build the compassionate support you deserve.

As Winnie the Pooh once said:

“You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter than you think, and more loved than you will ever know.”

Keep going. Keep sharing. Keep thriving.

With compassion,
Stuart Cline
Host of “Sobriety Now What?” | Counselor. Coach. Guide.