Battling Stigma and Navigating Recovery in the Age of COVID-19
When we don't incarcerate people but we give them the appropriate treatment, we will have opportunities to see them thrive in the community, you know, in a way that we have never seen before...
What happens when a pandemic collides with the already challenging journey of addiction recovery? This episode of the Landmark Recovery Podcast dives into this very question. Host Zachary Crouch welcomes two insightful guests: Patty McCarthy, CEO of Faces & Voices of Recovery, and Dr. David Susman, a licensed psychologist and Assistant Professor of Psychology at the University of Kentucky. Patty McCarthy shares how her nonprofit has been a lifeline for many during these unprecedented times.
She discusses the vital role of peer recovery support services and how her organization has adapted to ensure these services continue despite the pandemic. Patty also emphasizes the importance of changing how we talk about addiction and recovery, aiming to create policies that are more recovery-friendly. The conversation then shifts to Dr. David Susman, who brings his expertise in psychology to the table.
He sheds light on the damaging effects of stigma on those struggling with addiction and discusses strategies to reduce it. Dr. Susman also touches on the unique challenges faced by rural communities, particularly in Appalachia, where access to resources like broadband internet is limited. Despite these hurdles, both guests express optimism about the potential of technology and virtual meetings to support recovery efforts and foster a global movement based on advocacy and storytelling.
If you're interested in understanding how the recovery community is navigating the dual challenges of stigma and a global pandemic, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.