Gretchen Bergman: Rethinking Addiction and Incarceration
We can't treat addiction with anger, punishment, stigma, shame.
Imagine facing the challenges of addiction while also dealing with the harsh realities of incarceration. In this eye-opening episode of 'Sober Conversations', Dr. Herby Bell and Chris Harrison sit down with Gretchen Bergman, a passionate advocate for Moms United to End the War on Drugs. Gretchen brings her personal and professional experiences to the table, shedding light on the devastating impact of addiction-related incarcerations and the urgent need for harm reduction programs.
Through heartfelt stories and compelling arguments, Gretchen emphasizes the importance of compassion over punishment. She argues that our society needs to shift its approach from criminalizing addiction to providing the necessary support for recovery and successful reintegration into families and communities. With her unique blend of maternal instinct and public speaking prowess, Gretchen makes a powerful case for decriminalization and increased access to life-saving resources like naloxone.
Listeners will find themselves reflecting on how we can all contribute to a more empathetic and effective response to addiction. This episode is not just a discussion; it's a call to action to spread awareness and advocate for change. Tune in to hear Gretchen's inspiring journey and learn how you can help make a difference in the fight against America's number one public health issue.