Matt Yager: Finding Harmony in Music and Recovery
I'm not an abstinence-only person, and I do believe that if you can, if that's how you want to live and that's better for you, by all means be that.
What happens when the worlds of music and addiction collide? In this episode of 'The Peace On Drugs', host Aaron Akulis sits down with his lifelong friend and fellow musician, Matt Yager, to unravel this very question. Matt opens up about his turbulent journey through addiction, sharing raw and real experiences that many will find both heart-wrenching and relatable.
From his early days dabbling with substances like Percocet and fentanyl to hitting rock bottom, Matt’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the search for personal recovery paths. He candidly discusses how he used kratom and cannabis to aid his self-medication and how these choices played a crucial role in his recovery. Matt also challenges the conventional notion of sobriety, emphasizing that abstinence isn't the only route to a sober life.
His belief in individualized recovery plans offers a refreshing perspective for those navigating similar struggles. The episode doesn't shy away from the broader issues either. Aaron and Matt delve into the negative impact of the war on drugs, highlighting how it often pushes addicts from clinics to the streets. They also explore the promising benefits of psychedelics for mental health conditions like PTSD and depression, advocating for safer and more accessible options.
Whether you're someone grappling with addiction, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about the intersection of music and recovery, this conversation is bound to leave you inspired and hopeful.