Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick delve into the pervasive stigma surrounding addiction, sharing personal anecdotes that highlight its impact. They're joined by Lindsey Bland, Manager at Eskenazi Mental Health Center Adult Addiction, who offers professional insights into the harmful effects of addiction stigma and how it hinders individuals from seeking help.

Main Discussion Points:

1) Recognizing the Changing Discourse Around Addiction

Ryan recalls the stigma attached to addiction during the crack epidemic in the 1980s and how his upbringing shaped his understanding. Matt reflects on a conversation from his youth and acknowledges the changing discourse around addiction, crediting those in long-term recovery for erasing stigmas.

2) Choosing Language More Thoughtfully

The hosts discuss the impact of different words and labels associated with addiction, sharing personal experiences of hurtful language. Ryan and Matt dissect the evolution of their understanding of stigmatizing words and their effects on individuals in recovery.

3) Embracing a Fresh Perspective

Lindsey Bland highlights how addiction manifests similarly regardless of the substance involved and breaks down common misconceptions surrounding addicts and their behaviors. She emphasizes the prevalence of addiction across demographics and urges listeners not to label individuals based on their disease.

Timestamps and Discussions:

2:56 - 4:41: Ryan and Matt reflect on societal perceptions of addiction, drawing from personal experiences. They discuss the transformative role of long-term recovery in reshaping attitudes and reducing stigma.

4:42 - 6:55: Matt shares a childhood experience where he questioned addiction. The hosts explore the impact of social media on dispelling stigmas and highlight the universality of addiction's impact across demographics.

7:18 - 17:46: Ryan shares a poignant experience of being stigmatized by a former partner. This leads to a discussion on the profound impact of language and its evolving meanings in shaping perceptions of addiction.

21:17 - 21:52: Lindsey Bland discusses the neurological similarities between alcoholism and addiction. She dismantles common misconceptions about addicts and their behaviors, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding.

22:53 - 28:19: Bland addresses harmful labels attached to addicts and emphasizes the importance of recognizing addiction as a widespread issue without stigmatizing individuals. She urges listeners to adopt a compassionate approach towards those struggling with addiction.

Closing Remarks:

Matt and Ryan share resources for support, including their social media handles and organizations like Al-Anon and Eskenazi Mental Health Center. They also provide the Suicide Prevention Hotline number: (800) 273-8255 (24/7). Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast on your preferred platform!

Hosts' Social Media:

Matt: Social X/Insta: @sobriety_cast

Ryan: aa.intergroup.org/meetings (Meetings - virtual-na.org)

Resources Mentioned:

Al-Anon.org

Eskenazi Mental Health Center: www.eskenazihealth.edu/mental-health

 

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