Is Abstinence Being Overlooked in Addiction Recovery?
In the world of scientific data, new understandings of the internal mechanisms that create substance abuse, and harm reduction, have we lost the voice of abstinence? We have on Alexis and Giuseppe from the New West area of Vancouver to talk about how they feel that the abstinence option of drug treatment and recovery is being lost.
Are we sidelining abstinence in the evolving landscape of addiction recovery? In this thought-provoking episode of 'Recovery (Sort Of) - The Podcast', hosts Billy and Jason are joined by Alexis and Giuseppe from Vancouver to dive into this pressing issue. They tackle the tough questions about why abstinence seems to be getting less attention and funding compared to other treatment methods like medication-assisted therapy.
If you’ve ever wondered why the voice of abstinence is fading, this episode sheds light on the complexities involved. Alexis and Giuseppe share their personal journeys through addiction and recovery, highlighting how choosing abstinence has impacted their lives. They discuss the struggles faced by those opting for an abstinent path, especially when it comes to finding support and funding.
Their stories bring a human touch to the broader debate, emphasizing that behind every statistic are real people striving for a better life. The conversation also explores the current state of addiction treatment programs, pointing out that many are funded based on evidence-based practices, which often exclude anonymous programs like the 12 steps. This lack of funding and support for abstinent treatment options raises important questions about fairness and inclusivity in the recovery community.
Throughout the episode, the importance of community and connection in recovery is a recurring theme. Alexis and Giuseppe talk about how being open about their recovery journeys has helped reduce stigma and fostered a sense of belonging. They also touch on the limitations of current addiction research and the potential benefits and drawbacks of safe supply programs. The episode wraps up on a hopeful note, with a call to action for more advocacy and support for abstinent treatment programs.
By sharing their stories and insights, Alexis and Giuseppe aim to spark a broader conversation about the need for diverse treatment options in addiction recovery. Tune in to hear an honest and heartfelt discussion that challenges the status quo and advocates for a more inclusive approach to addiction treatment.