Doctor's Office: Friend or Foe in Addiction Recovery?
Recovery is lifestyle medicine. Doctors need to learn more about recovery, and it becomes my job to help educate my doctor. - Matt Statman
Ever wondered if your doctor's office is helping or hindering your recovery journey? In this episode of the Dawn Farm Addiction and Recovery Education Series, Matt Statman and Dr. Mark Weiner tackle this critical question. They dive into the complex relationship between addiction recovery and medical treatment, shedding light on the potential pitfalls and benefits of seeking medical care while in recovery. Dr.
Weiner and Statman explore the idea that while primary healthcare settings can offer essential long-term support, they can also pose risks if doctors lack the proper understanding of addiction. This episode breaks down the neurobiology of addiction, explaining how the brain's craving for addictive substances can complicate medical treatment. They discuss the dangers of prescription medications and how well-intentioned doctors might inadvertently trigger a relapse. The conversation doesn't stop there.
Statman and Weiner emphasize the need for tailored treatment plans that recognize recovery as a form of lifestyle medicine. They argue that abstinence alone isn't enough; comprehensive care is crucial for sustained recovery. The episode also highlights the role of collegiate recovery programs in providing a supportive community for students battling addiction. By offering specialized resources, these programs help students stay on track with their recovery while pursuing their academic goals. Sleep hygiene is another key topic in this episode.
Insomnia is a common issue among those in recovery, and the hosts offer practical advice on natural supplements and behavioral interventions to improve sleep quality. Tune in to hear Statman and Weiner's insights on how healthcare providers can become true allies in the recovery process, ensuring that medical treatment supports rather than sabotages your journey to sobriety.