SMART Recovery
SMART Recovery
The Intersection of Mental Health and Addiction
The Intersection of Mental Health and Addiction
The Intersection of Mental Health and Addiction
Wednesday 5th May 2021
Mike Massey discusses bridging mental health and addiction in SMART Recovery meetings, sharing practical tips and heartfelt insights.
40 minutes
Informative
Supportive
Encouraging
Thought-provoking
Engaging
About this podcast
Author:
SMART Recovery
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Family Recovery from Addiction
Body & Mind
Financial Health in Recovery
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Episodes:
79 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Mike Massey: Bridging Mental Health and Addiction in Recovery Meetings
I knew depression was real- I'm unfortunate, I don't have either one of those- but I didn't know anything about the, the interaction or the intersection with addictions.
Mike Massey, a seasoned facilitator for SMART Recovery Online, has a unique blend of professional and personal experience that makes him a valuable guide in addiction recovery. Since 2013, Mike has been leading online meetings, drawing from his background as a former teacher and union leader, and his own journey with substance use. But when participants started sharing their struggles with mental health disorders, Mike realized there was a gap in how best to support them.
This led him to co-create the 'Facilitator Best Practices for Addressing Mental Health Disorders and Suicide in SMART Recovery Meetings' guide. In this episode, Mike shares what inspired the creation of this guide and delves into its key elements. He emphasizes that while most facilitators aren't mental health experts, having a basic understanding of mental health issues is crucial.
Mike discusses the dual stigmas—self and societal—that often accompany mental health and addiction, and the importance of reframing these terms to foster a more supportive environment. He also talks about the 'magic' of being in a meeting, where participants come seeking hope and inspiration. One of his key strategies is asking participants, 'What do you need to get through this?'—a simple yet powerful question that opens up pathways to personalized support.
This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice and heartfelt insights, perfect for anyone involved in addiction recovery or supporting someone who is. Mike's story underscores the vital intersection of mental health and addiction, offering listeners valuable tools to enhance their recovery journey.