Facing Addiction Head-On: Dr. Joseph M. Martin’s Perspective
Get comfortable being uncomfortable talking about them, because the more you can talk about it, the less uncomfortable with it you will be in the long run, the less it can be weaponized against you and the less likely you can weaponize yourself, or you can weaponize it against yourself.
How do you change the way addiction is perceived and treated? Dr. Joseph M. Martin, a FASAM Certified Emergency Physician and Medical Director at Oakvine Recovery Center, sits down with hosts Hilary Roberts and Jason Wahler to tackle this very question. Dr. Martin shares his journey into addiction treatment, driven by the profound impact of reuniting families through recovery. He points out a significant hurdle: not everyone in the medical community sees addiction as a disease.
Using the phrase 'dogma dies hard in medicine', Dr. Martin explains how old-school thinking still hampers progress in treating addiction effectively. One of the key takeaways from this episode is the importance of personal experience in understanding addiction. Dr. Martin believes that firsthand encounters with addiction, whether direct or indirect, can shift perspectives and improve treatment approaches. The conversation also touches on cultural differences and how they can complicate addiction treatment. Dr.
Martin emphasizes the need for a more inclusive approach that respects these cultural nuances. The discussion isn't just about the medical aspects; it's also deeply personal. Dr. Martin talks about genetic predisposition and the ripple effects of addiction on families and careers. He encourages listeners to embrace uncomfortable conversations about addiction, arguing that open dialogue is crucial for breaking down stigma and fostering recovery.
As he puts it, 'the more you can talk about it, the less uncomfortable with it you will be in the long run'. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand addiction from a medical and personal perspective. Whether you're struggling with addiction yourself or supporting a loved one, Dr. Martin's insights offer valuable guidance and hope.