What Stephen Colbert got wrong about the opioid crisis.

It’s funny how the same old hysterical drug myths refuse to die. Back in 1992 former editor of the Journal Addiction Research & Theory John Booth Davies described the persistent tale of pushers and helpless addicts: “At the present moment, the standard line taken by a majority of people in the media, in treatment agencies,… Continue reading What Stephen Colbert got wrong about the opioid crisis.

Surviving Straight Inc, a Controlling Approach To Addiction Treatment Brings Disastrous Consequences

Straight Inc is one horrific example of what a controlling approach to rehabilitation results in: physical and psychological abuse. A new documentary uses survivor stories to bring you into the world of Straight Inc. Explore the “control model” approach to addiction treatment. We contrast the effects of a control model approach and efforts at self-change through personal stories of a Straight Inc victim and his younger sister.

Ending Your Desire to Use is a Myth?

One “recovering addict’s” idea of a myth kicks off an important discussion about attitudes towards sobriety. Unfortunately, in the recovery culture, sobriety is seen as a sort of punishment, and they still conceive of the high as a great temptation to be avoided. Meanwhile, many people outgrow such desires by realizing that there are better things in life.

Charlie Sheen Confirms That Chuck Lorre Is an AA Member

The cancellation of Two And A Half Men is really a heightened version of a spat between 2 men about whether or not AA is an effective solution for a substance use problem. Chuck Lorre holds most of the power in this situation, he also happens to be completely devoted to Alcoholics Anonymous, which Sheen has been openly criticizing. See the evidence here, along with new info from CBS execs.

Dr Jeffrey Schwartz on OCD and Treating Yourself

I will expand this post in the future to discuss how Dr Schwartz’s ideas are so important to understanding addiction – but for now, trust me, his ideas are important.  He is the leading authority on neuroplasticity and the use of this characteristic of the brain to overcome major life problems.  Watch this video, it… Continue reading Dr Jeffrey Schwartz on OCD and Treating Yourself

A New Hero for Addicts: Wendy Williams

A few years ago I was talking to a friend about my views on addiction, and won him over to my side.  Eventually, he told me about an experience he once had reading a book by the popular talk show host Wendy Williams.  In the book, she talks about how she was abusing cocaine, and… Continue reading A New Hero for Addicts: Wendy Williams