259: Tackling Stigma and Reform in Substance Use Disorder Susan Bartz Herrick & Dr. Arun Gupta

Do we truly understand substance use disorder? How can we dismantle the barriers to treatment? Join this latest episode with Duane as he interviews Susan Herrick and Dr. Arun Gupta tackle the stark realities of substance use disorder. 

Susan, a mother turned advocate, opens up about her son Luke's poignant battle with addiction, underscoring the heartrending struggle to access effective, science-based treatment. Dr. Gupta, contrasting Susan's narrative, brings his clinical expertise honed in India, highlighting the regulatory and educational hurdles that hinder the efforts of those battling addiction. 

Their stories align on one point - the desperate need for reform in this space. As we dig deeper, we uncover the shocking missteps and damaging regulations that have shaped the addiction treatment landscape. The criminalization of treatment has delayed access to vital medicines like Suboxone, stigmatizing those in dire need of help. Additionally, the unchecked rise and fall of Oxycontin – its unrestricted use igniting a peak in 2002 and 2003 – provides a chilling backdrop to today’s discussion. This episode uncovers the strength and grit of those battling substance use disorder and highlights the imperative need for effective treatment strategies, leaving us with this question: What if we could erase the stigma surrounding addiction?

In this episode, you will hear:

• Substance use disorder and treatment barriers
• Implications of regulations on suboxone treatment
• Stigma's impact on addiction treatment
• Strategies for addiction treatment and support
• Expressing gratitude and encouraging interaction

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Supporting Resources:

Slow Dancing with the Devil

https://www.amazon.com/Slow-Dancing-Devil-Substance-Disorder/dp/1476693897 

NovusMindfulLife.com

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

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