It’s my privilege to discuss the following topics: the “opioid epidemic,” effects of opioids & common precursors to addiction, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), how methadone works, and lessons I’ve learned as a MAT counselor. I hope this post provides you with a sense of what individuals who struggle with opioid dependence may experience. Continue reading Untold Stories of Addiction: Opioids
With the growing legalization of marijuana, its health and wellness claims, and its ever-present controversy, I hope to present you with a different perspective altogether. This is the story of a man who was in recovery from heroin use yet still faced criticism for marijuana use to treat his anxiety. This is a story of self-determination, embracing ambiguity, and being brutally honest with oneself. Continue reading Untold Stories of Addiction: Hallucinogens
Working with people who used CNS depressants, I’ve seen how easily benzodiazepines can be abused in treating anxiety. This is the story of a woman who self-medicated her anxiety and learned to associate feeling numb with feeling “okay.” This is a story of survival. Continue reading Untold Stories of Addiction: Depressants
In my experience of working with people who used stimulant drugs, the most common drugs of abuse have been cocaine and methamphetamine. The following is a story of a man who struggled with cocaine addiction, used it to self-medicate his ADHD, and began to rediscover himself in recovery. Continue reading Untold Stories of Addiction: Stimulants
What comes to mind when you hear the words “addiction” or “junkie”? The story that American culture tells about drug use is typically one of drama, glamour, and moral flaws. The media also tends to profile certain “types” of people who struggle with addiction. I hope to provide insight on some of the hidden narratives behind drug addiction, and to dispel myths that our sociopolitical culture perpetuates. Continue reading Untold Stories of Addiction: Intro
