A Controversial New Way To Think About Addiction | Carrie Wilkens
Sep 13, 2023
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In this discussion, Carrie Wilkens, Co-founder and CEO of the Center for Motivation and Change, tackles the stigma surrounding addiction and the differences between addiction and substance use disorder. She emphasizes the importance of positive communication and empathy in recovery while exploring alternatives to traditional abstinence. Wilkens highlights that many individuals naturally recover without formal treatment and presents effective strategies for supporting loved ones facing substance challenges, encouraging open dialogue and mindfulness.
Challenging stigmas, such as tough love and abstinence, is crucial in addressing substance use disorder.
Open dialogue and compassion are essential in reframing substance use as a behavior influenced by individual experiences.
Recovery from substance use disorder should be approached with nuance, recognizing that different individuals may have healthy relationships with substances.
Deep dives
The Current Landscape of Addiction and Substance Abuse
The podcast discusses the alarming statistics surrounding addiction and substance abuse, highlighting the prevalence and impact of these issues. The conversation emphasizes the need to challenge cultural norms and stigmas associated with addiction, such as tough love, hitting rock bottom, and abstinence. The guest, Carrie Wilkins, advocates for open dialogue and evidence-based strategies to address substance use disorder. The focus is on understanding addiction as a complex behavior driven by individual experiences and motivations.
Shifting Perspectives and Overcoming Stigma
The podcast explores the shift in societal discussions around addiction, especially regarding the opioid crisis. It highlights how past stigmatization and 'othering' of individuals with substance use problems hindered open conversations. The conversation emphasizes the importance of compassion and understanding when discussing substance use, reframing it as a behavior and considering individual contexts. The guest encourages a non-judgmental approach to create space for individuals to explore their relationship with substances.
The Nuances of Substance Use
The podcast delves into the complexity of substance use and challenges the idea of a one-size-fits-all approach to recovery. It explores the possibility of alternative pathways to abstinence, acknowledging that some individuals may have healthy and functional relationships with substances. The conversation calls for nuanced discussions about the pros and cons of substance use and recognizes that people can meet their needs through various means. It emphasizes the importance of individual self-awareness in evaluating whether substances are enhancing or harming their lives.
Mindfulness, Self-Compassion, and Motivation for Change
The podcast highlights the role of mindfulness, self-compassion, and motivation in empowering individuals to make behavior changes regarding substance use. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-awareness, staying present in the moment, and cultivating a compassionate and non-judgmental attitude towards oneself in the face of setbacks. It explores the benefits of mindfulness and self-compassion in fostering self-reflection, exploring emotional triggers, and developing healthier coping mechanisms. The conversation promotes the use of motivational interviewing techniques to create a safe, non-judgmental space for open dialogue and self-exploration.
Craft: an Effective Strategy for Families Dealing with Substance Use
Craft (Community Reinforcement and Family Training) is a highly effective strategy for families dealing with loved ones who have substance use problems. Compared to interventions or support groups like Al-Anon, Craft has shown better outcomes in getting loved ones into treatment (60-70% success rate). Craft teaches family members how to reinforce positive change, communicate effectively, and set boundaries without inadvertently supporting substance use. It emphasizes the importance of staying connected and replacing negative interactions with positive ones. Natural consequences play a role in the process, allowing individuals to experience the direct outcomes of their substance use choices. The Craft model recognizes the slow and challenging nature of change and encourages families to prioritize self-care during the process.
Positive Communication and Reinforcement in the Craft Model
Positive communication is a crucial aspect of the Craft model. It involves framing conversations in a positive way and making requests in a constructive manner. Open-ended questions, asking permission before making a request, and using reflection and validation can lower defensiveness and maintain positive connections. Reinforcement, both through communication and behavior, plays a significant role in supporting positive change. It includes giving compliments, noticing progress, providing affection, and reinforcing alternative behaviors. At the same time, setting limits and allowing natural consequences to occur also helps individuals recognize the impact of their substance use. The Craft model recognizes that change is slow and complex, requiring patience, learning, and acceptance of discomfort.
