E306 Nzinga Harrison MD - How to get un-addicted from anything!

Summary

This conversation focuses on the middle lane of alcohol use disorders and the importance of prevention and early intervention. The speakers discuss tools and techniques for waking people up to their relationship with alcohol and provide a simple acronym, CAGE, to assess alcohol use. They emphasize the stages of change model and the significance of slip-ups in the change process. The conversation also explores underlying issues and pain that may drive alcohol use. The lack of awareness in the medical profession and the rise of alcohol-free alternatives are discussed. The book 'Unaddiction' is highlighted as a resource for having important conversations about alcohol. The conversation explores the cultural revolution happening among millennials and Gen Zs, who are rethinking their relationship with alcohol. The rise of the low alcohol and no alcohol movement is encouraging, as it challenges the traditional norms around drinking. The discussion also highlights the importance of teaching children emotional recognition and coping skills from an early age, with the hope of changing the next generation's approach to alcohol and other substances. The hosts share their shared mission to change the narrative around behaviors like alcohol consumption and the need to raise awareness among older generations stuck in old habits.

Takeaways

• The middle lane of alcohol use disorders, which includes mild to moderate cases, is a crucial focus for prevention and early intervention.
• The stages of change model can help individuals navigate the process of behavior change, including reducing or quitting alcohol use.
• Slip-ups and departures from the desired behavior are a normal part of the change process and should be met with curiosity and support rather than shame.
• Having open and non-judgmental conversations about alcohol use is essential in breaking down stigma and raising awareness.
• The future of alcohol and our relationship with it involves increasing awareness, providing more support and resources, and promoting alcohol-free alternatives. There is a cultural revolution happening among millennials and Gen Zs, who are questioning the need for alcohol and seeking alternative ways to socialize.
• Teaching children emotional recognition and coping skills from an early age can help prevent reliance on substances like alcohol.
• Using personal experiences and relatable examples can help raise awareness and make difficult conversations about alcohol more approachable.
• Softening the ground by discussing lesser stigmatized behaviors can create a safe space for conversations about alcohol.

Social Links

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nzingaharrisonmd/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unaddictionpod/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzingaharrisonmd
• Book: https://www.amazon.com/Addiction-Mind-Changing-Conversations-That-Could/dp/1454950870/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=1S907B8KID6ER&keywords=unaddiction&qid=1689740394&sprefix=unadd%2Caps%2C96&sr=8-1
• Website: eleanorhealth.com