William White on the Many Roads to Long-Term Recovery
There are multiple pathways of long-term recovery and all are cause for celebration.
What if recovery isn't a one-size-fits-all journey? In this episode of 'One Hour AT A Time', host Mary Woods chats with William White, a seasoned expert in addiction studies and a Senior Research Consultant at Chestnut Health Systems. With over five decades in the field, White brings a wealth of knowledge, from his early days as a street worker to his role as a clinical director and researcher.
He’s also the author of the acclaimed book 'Slaying the Dragon - The History of Addiction Treatment and Recovery in America'. White takes listeners on a historical tour, highlighting pre-AA mutual aid societies like the Washingtonians and Ribbon Reform Clubs, which paved the way for modern recovery communities. He also delves into the success of the Oxford House Network of Recovery Homes, showcasing how structured environments can lead to high sobriety rates even for those with complex addiction histories.
The episode doesn’t shy away from challenging conventional wisdom. White contrasts treatment advocacy with recovery advocacy, emphasizing the need for a recovery-focused approach that respects individual paths. Whether you're in recovery, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about the history and future of addiction treatment, this episode offers a compassionate and informative look at the diverse roads to long-term sobriety.
Mary Woods and William White's conversation is both enlightening and inspiring, making it clear that there are many ways to reclaim one's life from addiction.