Maia Szalavitz

Maia Szalavitz, a Contributing Opinion writer for The New York Times and an expert on addiction and drug policy, shares insights on the recent decline in opioid deaths. She discusses the racial disparities affecting marginalized communities, revealing that they’re not benefiting from this decline. Szalavitz highlights the role of naloxone in saving lives and addresses the risks posed by dangerous drug combinations, such as fentanyl mixed with xylazine. Her analysis emphasizes the need for equitable access to harm reduction resources and a compassionate approach to addiction.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Maia Szalavitz, a contributing opinion writer for the New York Times and author, argues that addiction should be viewed as a learning disability rather than a moral failing. She emphasizes the importance of harm reduction strategies like needle exchanges and prescribed heroin, while also shedding light on the complexities of trauma and individual susceptibility. With her personal journey intertwined, Maia advocates for compassion and understanding in addressing addiction, pushing back against harmful stereotypes and misconceptions.

Author Maia Szalavitz discusses the pioneers of harm reduction and their impact on drug policy and addiction treatment. Topics include evidence-based treatments for addiction, the Dutch cannabis decriminalization approach, and the role of harm reduction in traditional treatment perspectives. The chapter also explores the lasting impact of the Tuskegee syphilis experiment and highlights the pioneers of harm reduction and needle exchange programs.

Maia Szalavitz, a leading voice on addiction and drug policy, discusses her book, "Undoing Drugs: The Untold Story of Harm Reduction and the Future of Addiction." She advocates for harm reduction as a compassionate alternative to traditional addiction treatments. The conversation examines the complexities of U.S. drug policies and the stigma surrounding addiction. Maia emphasizes individual paths to recovery, challenging the binary approaches of abstinence versus moderation. Her insights advocate for understanding, compassion, and improving quality of life for those affected by addiction.

Maia Szalavitz, an award-winning author and journalist, shares her transformative journey through addiction and the harm reduction movement. She reflects on how harm reduction practices saved her life during the AIDS crisis and advocates for a shift in addiction treatment from moralistic views to compassionate care. Maia discusses the historical evolution of harm reduction, its vital role in recovery, and the importance of human connection in healing, emphasizing the need for empathetic, organized advocacy to address addiction's complexities.