Rich Jones, a remarkable speaker I met at a SAMHSA event, joins me to share his transformative journey from the world of HR to becoming a therapist and certified interventionist in the recovery space. Rich opens up about his long-term recovery from opioid and alcohol use disorders, highlighting the personal and professional hurdles he faced during this pivotal shift. Our conversation sheds light on the stigma surrounding addiction and the courage it takes to embrace openness, even when societal norms might suggest otherwise.
Labels like "alcoholic" and "addict" can often feel like barriers rather than bridges on the path to recovery. Together, Rich and I unpack these terms, discussing the evolving nature of recovery and the importance of personal comfort levels. By sharing our stories, we aim to reassure those hesitant about starting their recovery journey, emphasizing that there are multiple pathways to success. We challenge common stereotypes about addiction, advocating for a more inclusive and understanding approach that celebrates diverse recovery experiences.
The episode also touches on the critical role families play in addiction recovery, exploring models like the Arise intervention that prioritize transparency and family involvement. Rich shares his insights into the psychological aspects of addiction and the spectrum of substance use disorders, underscoring the need for self-awareness and professional support. We also tackle the often-overlooked issue of workplace stress and substance use, highlighting the necessity of supportive environments that engage individuals proactively. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of recovery, offering insights and support for anyone touched by addiction.
Links from this episode with Rich Jones:
YouTurn Health
BuildWell Health
Sage's Army
ARISE Intervention info
Faces & Voices of Recovery
Other useful links from Brett:
