In this episode of "The Rehab," Dr. Leeds, engages in a deep and thoughtful conversation with Susan Bartz Herrick, MFA, EdD, the author of "Slow Dancing with the Devil: A Son's Substance Use Disorder, A Mother's Anguish." This episode is a profound exploration into the heart-wrenching realities of substance use disorders, illuminated through Susan's personal experience with her son's addiction. The discussion poignantly highlights the emotional turmoil and challenges that families face in this battle.

Addiction can ensnare even the most brilliant and creative minds, drawing a poignant analogy to superheroes weakened by their own form of kryptonite. The dialogue that unfolds is both profound and intricate, offering a multi-dimensional perspective on addiction, its treatment, and the opioid crisis.
Susan recounts her family's distressing journey, providing a stark portrayal of the struggles and obstacles encountered in dealing with opioid addiction. The narrative touches on the initial prescription medication abuse leading to addiction, the arduous search for effective treatment, and the broader implications of these experiences on countless other families.

The episode offers an intimate look at Susan's son's valiant battle with addiction, revealing the complexities of treatment access, the devastating cycles of relapse, and the lethal risks of Fentanyl addiction. This segment contributes significantly to a moving and impactful conversation on the realities of substance use disorders.

They discuss the complexities of addiction treatment, focusing on the role of dopamine depletion and the challenges of addressing it effectively. Through a blend of personal stories and expert insights, Susan and Dr. Leeds discuss the utilization of Suboxone in managing dopamine levels, while also highlighting the disturbing scarcity of affordable Suboxone treatment in areas like North Carolina.
Their discussion further explores the broader landscape of addiction treatment, emphasizing the dire need for accessible, effective care and the importance of dismantling stigma through education. They critically assess the pharmaceutical industry's role in marketing medications such as Suboxone and Vivitrol, as well as the ethical issues and widespread consequences of their actions.

Dr. Leeds and Susan address the stigmatization and criminalization of addiction treatment, underlining the urgent need to bridge the gap between scientific understanding and public perception. Their discussion challenges prevailing misconceptions, educates about effective treatment options, and stresses the critical importance of heightened awareness and access to addiction treatment services.
In examining the broader societal and healthcare contexts, the conversation covers a range of issues from the criminal aspects of opioid medications and informed consent challenges to the evolving attitudes towards pain treatment within medical communities.

This episode of "The Rehab" is a stark reminder of the urgent necessity to confront the opioid crisis, advocating for expanded knowledge, resources, and compassion in tackling addiction. Through personal stories and expert knowledge, it presents a compelling and essential exploration of addiction, treatment, and the societal challenges entwined with the opioid crisis.

Listeners are bound to be deeply affected, enlightened, and motivated by this episode, prompting crucial reflections on the complexities of addiction, the essential need for accessible treatment, and the transformative impact of education and awareness in addressing the opioid crisis.

Please visit Susan Bartz Herrick here: https://www.susanbartzherrick.com