Grade 1 View – Ep. 9 – Breaking the Silence on Substance Use Struggles

In this episode of Grade 1 View, we sat down with two incredibly brave and inspiring guests, Louisa Martin, PhD, CRNA and Rigo Garcia, MSN, MBA, CRNA, who opened up about their personal battles with substance use disorder. They didn’t hold anything back. From near rock bottom to recovery, from fear and shame to leadership and advocacy, their stories are raw, real, and deeply relevant to our lives as students and future CRNAs.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

🧠 Why high achievers and CRNAs are especially at risk for substance use

📖 Personal stories of addiction, recovery, and redemption from Louisa and Rigo

📞 What to know about Parkdale’s 24/7 confidential helpline

🚫 Breaking the stigma: why it’s okay not to be okay

❤️ How to help a classmate or colleague in crisis

If you or someone you know need support, please utilize these resources:

https://parkdalecenter.com

24 Hour Hotline: 888-895-2471

Partnership with AANA: https://parkdalecenter.com/about-us/aana-partnership/

Wellness Resources from AANA: https://www.aana.com/membership/here-for-you/health-and-wellness/

Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/grade-1-view/

Visit the AANA Resident Hub: https://www.aana.com/resident-hub/ 

Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246