Let's Talk Addiction & Recovery

Latest Episodes:

Overcoming Addiction: Why It's Different for Women Jan 08, 2020

Show notes

Women are far less likely than men to access treatment for addiction, and women who do seek care are far more medically compromised by the time they enter rehab than their male counterparts. Addiction psychiatrist Kristen Schmidt, MD, talks with host William C. Moyers about factors that influence the progression and treatment of substance use disorder among women. The doctor's advice for women in active addiction? Substance use disorder is a disease, and you are worthy of care and healing.

Trauma-Informed Care in Addiction Treatment Dec 18, 2019

Show notes

The correlation between trauma and substance use disorders is off the charts. And it's a combination that complicates the addiction treatment and recovery process for many patients. Listen in as psychiatrist Kristen Schmidt, MD, talks with host William C. Moyers about the use of trauma-informed practices in addiction treatment, approaches that take into account the different ways patients experience the symptoms of trauma. Concepts of safety, strength and worth are key to trauma-informed care.

Finding the Right Treatment Program Dec 04, 2019

Show notes

Treatment for alcohol and other drug addiction comes in many different varieties. So what are your best options when you or your loved one need help? Addiction recovery expert Christopher Yadron, PhD, joins host William C. Moyers to discuss today's most-effective addiction treatment programs, including: specific treatment modalities for opioid, alcohol and meth addiction, important mental health considerations, group therapy and other therapeutic approaches, relapse prevention and long-term recovery support.

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Addiction Nov 27, 2019

Show notes

Emerging evidence shows a strong correlation between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and mental health issues—especially addiction—in adulthood. Psychiatrist Stephen Delisi, MD, talks with host William C. Moyers about long-term effects of childhood trauma on health and resilience. Dr. Delisi explains why many clinicians now use a 10-question ACEs survey with patients to identify childhood risk factors including neglect, abuse and growing up in a family with addiction or mental illness.

Preventing Burnout in Health Care Nov 13, 2019

Show notes

Job stress and emotional exhaustion among physicians, nurses, therapists, addiction counselors and other health care providers pose a major threat to quality care and patient safety. Listen in as educator and recovery advocate Joseph Skrajewski talks with host William C. Moyers about the prevalence of burnout syndrome in the health care field, including the increased risk of developing addiction. Learn the signs and symptoms of professional burnout as well as practical prevention strategies to ensure well-being.

Is It Time for an Intervention? Oct 30, 2019

Show notes

Anyone who's watched as alcohol or other drugs take over a family member's life understands the dilemma: would an intervention help to turn things around, or might it make matters worse? Listen in as addiction clinician and intervention specialist Drew Horowitz talks with host William C. Moyers about the intervention process—what happens, who is typically involved, when to take action, how to prepare and what you need to know about treatment and recovery.

Wealth, Fame and Power(lessness): The Secret to Purposeful Living Oct 16, 2019

Show notes

Listen in as host William C. Moyers talks with celebrated psychotherapist for the rich and famous, Paul Hokemeyer, PhD, about his book, Fragile Power: Why Having Everything Is Never Enough. Hokemeyer explains why insecurity, shame and emotional pain are part of the human condition, no matter the size of your fan base or bank account. More important, he shares that empathy (available to everyone) is the true super power because it fosters mutual understanding, connection and authenticity.

Warning Signs and Symptoms of Alcoholism Oct 02, 2019

Show notes

When is a drinking problem actually addiction? What are the physical and psychological symptoms of alcohol dependence? Can genetics or family history predispose a person to alcohol addiction? Listen in as psychiatrist Stephen Delisi, MD, talks with host William C. Moyers about the warning signs of alcohol use disorder (the term doctors now use for alcoholism), including physical and mental health symptoms, the process of withdrawal and effective treatment options.

Reimagining Life after Addiction Sep 18, 2019

Show notes

Listen in as host William C. Moyers talks with three young adults about the process of rebuilding their lives after struggling with the disease of addiction. Panelists describe how and why they made the turn away from addiction to seek help, and share the biggest lessons learned along the way—about shame, adversity, strength, perspective and gratitude. The best thing about getting clean and sober as a young adult? You can actually become the person you always wanted to be.

How Indie-Rocker Johnny Solomon Got Clean and Sober Sep 04, 2019

Show notes

Acclaimed singer/songwriter Johnny Solomon opens up with host William C. Moyers about the mix of self-doubt, addiction and undiagnosed bipolar disorder that led him further and further away from the person he wanted to be—and the healing he found (and continues to find) by reaching out for help and support. Now in long-term recovery, Solomon guides others along that healing path as an addiction and mental health counselor. An unexpected bonus of recovery: he's writing more music than ever.