Partnership to End Addiction
Partnership to End Addiction
Patrick Kennedy discusses Family, Recovery, and Policy
Patrick Kennedy discusses Family, Recovery, and Policy
Patrick Kennedy discusses Family, Recovery, and Policy
Tuesday 3rd November 2020
Patrick Kennedy opens up about his addiction and mental health struggles on 'Heart of the Matter', stressing the need for accessible treatment and family support.
34 minutes
Informative
Empowering
Hopeful
Authentic
Supportive
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Partnership to End Addiction
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Categories:
Family Recovery from Addiction
Sobriety Success Stories
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Body & Mind
Creative Recovery Journeys
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Get the buttons here!Patrick Kennedy: Battling Addiction and Mental Health in the Public Eye
There's this expectation from people on the outside looking in to those of us in recovery or those of us struggling, that why can't you get better? But when you're in the throes of addiction or mental illness, that free choice to decide what really to do in your life is taken away from you.
Patrick J. Kennedy, former U.S. Representative, joins Elizabeth Vargas on this episode of 'Heart of the Matter' to share his deeply personal journey through addiction and mental health struggles. Known for his transparency, Kennedy talks about the challenges of dealing with these issues while being constantly in the public eye. He also highlights his policy work, including co-sponsoring the 2008 Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, aimed at making mental health treatment accessible to all Americans.
Kennedy doesn't just talk policy; he lives it. In 2013, he founded the Kennedy Forum, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing evidence-based practices and policies in mental health and addiction. His commitment to this cause is evident as he discusses the importance of accessible mental health treatment and the hurdles posed by insurance regulations. The conversation also touches on the impact of mental health disorders on substance use in teens and the stigma that still surrounds these issues.
Kennedy underscores the power of speaking out and the crucial role of family and support systems in recovery. He poignantly notes, 'When you're in the throes of addiction or mental illness, that free choice to decide what really to do in your life is taken away from you'. This episode is a must-listen for anyone grappling with addiction or mental health challenges, or those supporting loved ones through their recovery.
Patrick Kennedy's story offers hope and actionable insights, making it clear that recovery is possible with the right support and policies in place.