Demons of Addiction

This week marks a milestone for The Activity Continues podcast: our 150th episode! Fittingly, Megan and Amy dive into one of the most emotionally charged episodes of The Dead Files, “Afflicted” (Season 5, Episode 7), which aired exactly ten years ago. But as the hosts quickly discover, the real demons in this story aren’t just the ones haunting the house—they’re the ones that haunt families everywhere: addiction, pain, and the sacrifices we make for those we love.

A Haunting in Covington

The episode centers on a single mother, Rhonda, and her three children in Covington, Louisiana. Their home is besieged by terrifying paranormal forces, and the family’s story is one of escalating fear, mysterious injuries, and a marriage torn apart. As Steve DiSchiavi investigates the property’s dark history, Amy Allan’s walk reveals a trio of malevolent entities—including a demonic presence that feeds on addiction and chaos, latching onto the family’s youngest daughter.

Addiction: The Real Demon

What sets this episode apart is its unflinching look at addiction—not just as a personal struggle, but as a force that can tear families apart and, in the show’s supernatural framing, even attract dark entities. The hosts discuss how addiction is depicted both literally and metaphorically as a demon, and how the show’s warning resonated with viewers (one Redditor even credited the episode with helping them get sober).

Megan and Amy reflect on the complexities of addiction, the stigma that surrounds it, and the reality that it never truly goes away. Their candid conversation touches on personal experiences, the genetic and environmental factors at play, and the strength it takes to break the cycle—for yourself and for your children.

Family, Sacrifice, and Survival

One of the most powerful moments comes at the end, when Rhonda chooses to stop taking her pain medication—despite daily suffering—out of fear that the “addiction demon” might claim her or her children. It’s a raw illustration of a mother’s love and the impossible choices families sometimes face. The hosts are moved by Rhonda’s strength and the family’s resilience, noting that sometimes the scariest battles are the ones we fight in silence.

Not Just Ghost Stories

While there’s plenty of classic Dead Files intrigue—historical drama, mysterious scratches, and a sketch that may or may not resemble the ghost in question—this episode stands out for its heart. Megan and Amy’s discussion is less about jump scares and more about empathy, understanding, and the real-life demons that so many listeners face.

Final Thoughts

Episode 150 isn’t the funniest or lightest installment of The Activity Continues, but it’s one of the most important. It’s a reminder that behind every ghost story is a human story, and that sometimes, talking about the hard stuff is the bravest thing we can do.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, know that you’re not alone—and that help is out there. And if you’re just here for the ghost stories, don’t worry: the next episode promises plenty of chills (and maybe a few more laughs).

Thanks for listening, and here’s to the next 150 episodes!

— The Activity Continues Team