Guy Felicella's Journey: From Addiction to Advocacy
I repair a lot of the damage that I caused, trying to balance out. And even though I wasn't getting the exact results that I was looking for, I was still motivated to keep trying to get there.
Ever wondered what it takes to turn a life of addiction into one of advocacy and support? In this episode of Recovery Cast, host Pawley sits down with Guy Felicella, a man who has walked the tough road from addiction to recovery and now dedicates his life to helping others do the same. Guy works with Vancouver Coastal Health, the Ministry of Mental Health and Addiction, and the BC Centre on Substance Use.
He also visits schools and colleges to educate students about addiction and recovery. His story is one of resilience, hope, and transformation. Guy opens up about his early struggles with drug use and crime, painting a vivid picture of the challenges he faced. He discusses the importance of addressing underlying trauma and mental health issues that often accompany addiction. Sharing his own battles with anxiety, depression, and self-hatred, Guy highlights how trauma therapy has been crucial in his recovery journey.
He believes that more education and awareness around trauma-informed care are essential for effective addiction treatment. The conversation also touches on the need for compassionate and effective policies to tackle addiction and mental health issues. Guy talks about his work with various organizations that aim to provide better healthcare, housing, and support for drug users and their families. He advocates for harm reduction strategies like opiate replacement therapies, emphasizing their role in saving lives and supporting recovery.
Throughout the episode, Guy's warmth, humor, and deep compassion shine through, making this an inspiring listen for anyone interested in the complexities of addiction and recovery. Whether you're battling addiction yourself or want to understand more about this issue, this episode offers valuable insights and hope.