Dee-Dee Stout: Embracing Harm Reduction in Addiction Recovery
The people that are going to be responsible for change in the next generation are not going to be people like me, who were the former addicts- quote, unquote- who then recovered, or some people prefer to say recovering. Of course they're not because it's a system and it's not about blame anyway.
Ever wondered how someone transitions from battling addiction to becoming a leading advocate for harm reduction? In this episode of 'The Social Exchange', host Zach Rhoads sits down with Dee-Dee Stout, a California Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Level II (CADC-II), who shares her remarkable journey. Dee-Dee opens up about her personal struggles with substance use and how she initially resisted, but eventually embraced, the principles of harm reduction.
Her story is one of transformation and resilience, making it a compelling listen for anyone interested in addiction recovery and support. Dee-Dee doesn't just stop at sharing her personal experiences. She dives into her professional journey, discussing her extensive training with renowned experts in the field of substance use disorders and behavior change. From Motivational Interviewing to Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention, Dee-Dee's expertise shines through as she explains the various therapeutic models she employs.
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Dee-Dee's involvement with Families For Sensible Drug Policy (FSDP) and Tony Trimingham's Family Drug Support model. These initiatives focus on providing compassionate support to families affected by addiction, emphasizing the importance of listening, building relationships, and supporting autonomy. Dee-Dee passionately argues for policy changes in addiction treatment, highlighting the biases and limitations that often hinder effective recovery.
This episode isn't just about theory; it's about real-life applications and the impact of harm reduction on individuals and families. Dee-Dee's candid discussion offers valuable insights into the complexities of addiction recovery, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand or support someone on their journey to sobriety. Tune in for an engaging conversation that challenges conventional views on addiction and showcases the power of harm reduction.