Flight of Thoughts

Flight of Thoughts

Flight of Thoughts

  • Toronto's poisoned drug supply, the neuroanatomy of addiction, and how funding social services more than police can enhance public safety

Toronto's poisoned drug supply, the neuroanatomy of addiction, and how funding social services more than police can enhance public safety

Friday 12th May 2023

Jake uncovers Toronto's drug supply dangers and the science behind addiction, advocating for harm reduction and improved social services.
Explicit
61 minutes
Informative
Empowering
Inspiring
Hopeful
Transformative

About this podcast

Flight of Thoughts
Overview:
Categories:
Recovery from Trauma
Sobriety Toolkit
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Financial Health in Recovery
Creative Recovery Journeys
Links:
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Episodes:
45 (View all)
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The Hidden Dangers of Toronto's Drug Scene and the Science of Addiction

Episode Overview

  • Jake delves into the impact of Toronto's poisoned drug supply and the role of drug checking in harm reduction.
  • The episode explores the neuroanatomy of addiction, emphasizing the complex biopsychosocial factors involved.
  • Jake highlights the crucial need for more funding and support for social services to address addiction and homelessness effectively.
  • The role of community crisis teams and their significance in providing support to individuals in need is discussed.
  • The episode sheds light on the impact of trauma, stress, and isolation on addiction, emphasizing that addiction is not a choice but a result of various biopsychosocial factors.
Every part of the problem, the bio, psycho, social, plus financial, legal part, all of those get solved at drop-ins if you give people the right resources and pay workers enough to actually stay in these jobs.
Jake's years on the frontlines have given him a unique perspective on addiction and public health. In this episode, he takes listeners through the gritty reality of Toronto's poisoned drug supply. Ever wondered what really goes into those substances? Jake breaks down how dealers cut drugs with dangerous chemicals to save money and increase potency, often with devastating effects on users. But it's not all doom and gloom.
Jake highlights the lifesaving work of Toronto Public Health and harm reduction organizations like The Works, which offer free and anonymous drug testing services. These efforts are crucial in identifying harmful adulterants and protecting the community. He doesn't stop there. Jake dives into the neuroanatomy of addiction, explaining how our brains' reward circuits can make us vulnerable to substance use disorders. He also touches on the bio-psycho-social factors that contribute to addiction, from adverse childhood experiences to stress and isolation.
This episode isn't just about the problems; it's about solutions too. Jake passionately argues for more funding for social services over policing, suggesting that this shift could better address addiction and homelessness. With his extensive experience and heartfelt passion for harm reduction, Jake provides a compelling, informative, and hopeful discussion on a complex issue.