Media's Role in Shaping Views on Addiction: A Conversation Between Mother and Son
People who are living in these kinds of communities just kind of have to realize that not everything is as perfect as it looks.
How does the media shape our views on addiction? In this engaging episode of 'Secrets of a Sober Mom', Leslie Shapiro and her son Max dive into this critical topic. Max, a sophomore at the University of Missouri's Journalism School, brings his media knowledge and writing skills to the table as they discuss how fictional media, like the Broadway musical 'Jagged Little Pill' and the Elton John biopic 'Rocketman', depict addiction.
Their conversation is a blend of personal anecdotes and broader societal observations, aiming to shed light on the stigmatization of addiction. Leslie and Max emphasize the importance of destigmatizing addiction, highlighting that it can affect anyone, regardless of their background. They point out that even in seemingly perfect communities, addiction and mental illness are present and often hidden behind closed doors.
Leslie shares her own journey with substance abuse and how sobriety has transformed her life, allowing her to live with gratitude. This episode isn't just for those in recovery but for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of addiction and the impact of media portrayals. Leslie and Max's heartfelt discussion offers valuable insights into how society views addiction and the urgent need for more compassionate and accurate representations. Tune in for a thoughtful exploration that challenges stereotypes and promotes empathy.