When it comes to addiction the never-ending debate about “disease model” or brain disease, moral failing or trauma reaction causes a lot of confusion. The continued disagreements around the “causes”of addiction and the efficacy of addiction treatment, 12 Step programs, faith based solutions, medication and therapy models just add to the challenges facing those looking for information and help. It is refreshing to read a well thought through interview like this with Dr Drew Pinsky, clear thinking, information and informed opinion help people make choices.
CAUSES
“Each case [of addiction] has the potential to include pre-existing trauma issues, personality issues, psychiatric problems, brain injury from substances, withdrawal issues, post-acute withdrawal issues, iatrogenic issues, and genetic predispositions.”
The recognition that each case may respond to differing addiction treatment methods and that problematic use might not always be addiction serves to remind that the routes out of addiction and into recovery, or a new way of living, are equally diverse. Assessments, addiction treatment and recovery plans need to be individualised, there needs to be a greater acceptance of all the alternatives.
RECOVERY PATHWAYS
“It’s so important to remind people during the beginning of their recovery and throughout the first year and beyond that it takes time. It’s such an important thing for them to remember. Let me emphasise something here. When you say it takes time, we’re talking years, more often than not.”
Recovery of all types takes time, it is a process. Thank you Dr Drew.
