Is Opioid Addiction a Choice? Insights from Dr. Jamie Redwing
Addiction should be looked at in the same way that we view other chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension and cancer.
Can opioid addiction really be chalked up to personal choice? In this thought-provoking episode of 'Tiger Resilience Addiction Solutions for Reaching Human Potential', Bernie Tiger sits down with Dr. Jamie Redwing, a seasoned addiction specialist, to tackle this pressing question. Dr. Redwing sheds light on the scientific reality that addiction is a chronic brain disease, not a moral failing or character flaw.
The discussion dives deep into the biological underpinnings of addiction, comparing it to other chronic illnesses like diabetes and hypertension, which are free from the stigma that addiction often carries. Bernie and Dr. Redwing also explore the profound impact addiction has on families. They emphasize that understanding addiction as a disease can foster more compassionate and effective support systems for those struggling.
The episode underscores the importance of family involvement in the recovery process, likening it to the essential support structures that keep an aircraft flying smoothly at high altitudes. This episode is a must-listen for anyone affected by opioid addiction, whether directly or through a loved one. It offers a compassionate perspective that challenges outdated notions and provides practical insights for supporting recovery.
If you're looking for a deeper understanding of addiction and how to better support those affected, this conversation between Bernie Tiger and Dr. Jamie Redwing is both enlightening and essential.