Dan Peres: From Glamour to Grit - A Journalist's Battle with Opioid Addiction
Part of the reason I just wrote this book was to help destigmatize addiction and to show people that, hey, this isn't like a moral failure, you're not some fuck up, you know, you're not like weak, you know, this is a part of the human condition.
Imagine having a career that others envy, only to be battling a hidden monster inside. Dan Peres, a once-celebrated journalist in New York City, lived this reality. Despite his outward success, Dan was grappling with a crippling addiction to opioid painkillers, which began after a surgery. In this compelling episode of The SHAIR Recovery Podcast, Dan opens up to host Omar Pinto about his dark descent into addiction and his arduous journey back to sobriety.
Dan’s story is not just about the dangers of prescription drugs but also about the deep-rooted issues of self-esteem and loneliness that often accompany addiction. Now 12 years clean, Dan shares the pivotal moments that helped him reclaim his life and the ongoing process of maintaining his recovery. He also tackles the stigma surrounding addiction, aiming to shift perceptions and show that addiction is neither a moral failing nor a sign of weakness.
This episode is a heartfelt and raw exploration of the complexities of addiction and recovery, offering hope and practical advice for those facing similar battles. Whether you’re struggling with addiction yourself or supporting someone who is, Dan’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible.