Join host Dan Hauser on a journey through the shadows of addiction into the light of recovery and hope with guest Nikki O'Donnell of Words of Hope 4 Life. In this compelling episode of the Addiction Help Podcast, Nikki, a veteran child psychologist and a fervent advocate for mental health, unravels her personal and professional battles against addiction. Through her resilience, innovation, and community activism, discover the transformative power of support and empathy in overcoming life's most daunting challenges.

Who is Nikki O'DonnellNikki is a prominent mental health advocacy and community support figure, recognized for her dedication and innovative approach. She boasts over 20 years of experience as a licensed child psychologist and co-founder and Executive Director of Words of Hope 4 Life, a mental health ACTION non-profit that empowers individuals and families to navigate life's challenges with resilience and hope. She also has a private practice offering therapy, speaking engagements, and consulting. Discussion Points

Nikki O'Donnell’s Background and Work: Introduction to Nikki O'Donnell, her roles as a licensed child psychologist, the co-founder and executive director of Words of Hope for Life, and her dedication to mental health advocacy and community support.

The Impact of Family and Personal History on Mental Health: Nikki’s personal journey growing up in a household affected by addiction and how her family's struggle with opiate addiction influenced her career in mental health and advocacy.

The Concept of "Secret Keepers" and Its Effect on Families: Discussion on how families often hide struggles with addiction or mental health issues, leading to a lack of open communication and support for those affected.

Community Support and Creating Safe Spaces: The importance of having a supportive community ("the third place") where individuals can find refuge and understanding outside of home and work/school environments.

Mental Health Outreach and Education Initiatives: This is an overview of Nikki's work in the community, including outreach to children whose parents struggle with addiction and the mental health action nonprofit Words of Hope 4 Life.

Challenges and Realities of Dealing with Addiction and Mental Health: Insights into the complexities of addiction and mental health, including the challenges of addressing these issues in both individuals and their families.

Innovative Approaches to Mental Health and Therapy: Nikki's unique methods in her private practice and community work, including her focus on connecting with people through various initiatives and the role of innovative therapy methods.

The Importance of Community in Mental Health Recovery: How building a network of support and creating community-focused events and spaces can significantly impact individuals' recovery and mental health well-being.

Future Directions in Mental Health Advocacy: Nikki’s vision for expanding her efforts and the potential for new projects and collaborations to further support individuals and families dealing with addiction and mental health challenges.

Produced by Chris Carberg & Michael Moesch Copyright 2024. AddictionHelp.com. All Rights Reserved.

Check out this episode of The Addiction Help Podcast, where Dan Hauser talks with AddictionHelp.com Founder Chris Carberg about his 19-year sobriety journey. Chris gets real about the highs and lows of staying sober, tackling other addictions, and how he's continually working on himself. This episode is a raw look at the realities of addiction recovery and the strength it takes to maintain it. Listen to Chris's story of determination and growth. #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #RealStories Copyright 2024. AddictionHelp.com. All Rights Reserved.

Description: In this profound episode of the Addiction Help Podcast (AHP), we delve into the intersection of sobriety and parenthood with our guest, Leah Numbers. Leah's story is not just about overcoming addiction; it's a tale of strength, resilience, and the transformative journey of parenting through the lens of sobriety.

Episode Overview: Parenting is a challenging journey, even more so for those navigating the path of recovery. Leah Numbers, a single parent, shares her inspiring story with our host, Dan Hauser. Leah's journey is unique, encompassing the trials and triumphs of raising her son while maintaining her sobriety. This episode offers a raw, unfiltered look into how sobriety impacts parenting styles, the dynamics within the family, and the broader implications on mental health.

Key Highlights:

• The Dual Challenge of Sobriety and Parenting: Leah opens up about the early days of her recovery journey, juggling the responsibilities of a single parent and staying sober. She discusses the complexities and emotional toll of this dual role.

• Honesty and Open Communication: One of Leah's key strategies in parenting is maintaining an open line of communication with her son about her past struggles with addiction. She emphasizes the importance of honesty in building trust and fostering a healthy parent-child relationship.

• Self-Care and Support Systems: Leah shares her approach to self-care, which has been critical in her recovery. She talks about creating a support system that includes not just traditional methods like therapy and support groups, but also finding strength and support in her role as a mother.

• Transformative Effects of Recovery on Family Dynamics: The episode delves into how Leah's sobriety has positively influenced her family dynamics, bringing about a deeper understanding and stronger bond with her son.

• Advice for Parents in Recovery: Leah offers advice and encouragement to other parents in similar situations. She stresses the importance of seeking help, being patient with oneself, and the power of setting a positive example for their children.

Closing Thoughts: Leah's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the positive impact of sobriety on family life. Her story is not just about the struggles; it's a narrative of hope, healing, and the joy of rediscovering oneself through the eyes of a child.

Produced by Chris Carberg & Michael Moesch

Copyright 2024. AddictionHelp.com. All Rights Reserved.

Navigating Sobriety During the Holidays: A Deep Dive into Addiction and Mental Health

Welcome to another engaging episode of the Addiction Help Podcast, your trusted source for insights into addiction and mental health.

In this special holiday episode, host Dan Hauser, alongside Chris Carberg, founder of AddictionHelp.com, dive into the unique challenges of maintaining sobriety during the festive season.

Join us as we explore the dual nature of the holidays – a time of celebration and potential stress for those in recovery. We discuss the hidden pressures of the season, from managing social gatherings to coping with the ‘Holiday Blues.’

The episode features invaluable insights from Kristen Umholtz, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, who provides practical strategies for dealing with holiday-induced stress and maintaining mental wellness.

As we move towards the New Year, we also delve into the concept of resolutions and how to approach the year ahead with a mindset geared towards health and sobriety.

This episode is about navigating the challenges and embracing the opportunities for growth and connection that this time of year offers.

Whether you are in recovery, supporting someone who is, or simply interested in mental health and well-being, this episode offers a comprehensive look at how to approach the holidays and New Year with resilience and hope.

Remember, you are not alone in your journey. Support is available, and recovery is possible. Tune in for an episode filled with guidance, encouragement, and expert advice.

Subscribe, rate, and review the Addiction Help Podcast on your preferred platform. Let's spread awareness and support each other in the journey towards wellness.

Produced by Chris Carberg & Michael Moesch 

Copyright 2023, AddictionHelp.com. All Rights Reserved.

Join us for episode 22 of the #AddictionHelpPodcast as we explore the newly released SAMHSA / HHS 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health findings with #addiction expert Dr. Kent S. Hoffman. We discuss the growing issue of fentanyl addiction, its unique challenges in treatment, and the broader impact on public health and recovery. #AddictionRecovery #FentanylAwareness #AHPodcast

The 2022 survey presents a troubling picture: nearly one in five Americans ages 12 and older reported having a substance use disorder in the past year. Alarmingly, about 60% of adolescents and adults used substances like alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs, or vaped nicotine. Among these, 7.3% of adolescents aged 12 to 17 used tobacco or vaped nicotine in the past month, signifying a growing trend among younger populations.

The Rise of Fentanyl

A critical focus of our discussion was the rise of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. Its prevalence and potency have necessitated a shift in treatment approaches. Dr. Hoffman explained the unique challenges of treating fentanyl addiction, emphasizing the increased risk of relapse and the need for targeted education and prevention strategies.

The Evolution of Addiction Treatment

In the past two decades, treatment approaches for opioid use disorder, including fentanyl, have evolved significantly. Dr. Hoffman highlighted the specific strategies emerging to combat fentanyl addiction, differing from traditional methods used for other opioids.

Fentanyl's Impact on Treatment Dynamics

The rise of fentanyl has complicated the landscape of opioid use disorders. Dr. Hoffman spoke about the hurdles in treatment and recovery, especially with fentanyl users, due to its high potency and addictive quality.

Adjustments in Treatment Plans for Fentanyl Users

Traditional opioid addiction treatments require adjustments when dealing with fentanyl. Dr. Hoffman detailed these specific approaches, focusing on managing the high potency and risks associated with fentanyl.

Public Health and Fentanyl

We also touched upon the impact of fentanyl on communities and healthcare systems. Dr. Hoffman emphasized the importance of adapting treatment facilities and public health strategies to this growing challenge.

Education and Prevention Strategies

Dr. Hoffman underscored the critical role of education and prevention in addressing the fentanyl crisis. Raising awareness about its dangers compared to other opioids is paramount.

A Glimmer of Hope

Despite the grim statistics, there are positives to acknowledge. The Biden administration's commitment of over $1.55 billion to improve treatments and expand recovery support services is a step forward. Additionally, the rate of overdose deaths in the U.S. has "flattened" in recent years, signaling a potential shift in the right direction.

The Path Forward

Dr. Hoffman's insights reinforce the need for comprehensive strategies in combating the fentanyl crisis. It's not just about treatment; it's about prevention, education, and policy changes. As we continue to face these challenges, it is crucial to remember the human stories behind the statistics - the struggles, the recoveries, and the ongoing fight against addiction.

Produced by Chris Carberg & Michael Moesch

Copyright 2023, AddictionHelp.com. All Rights Reserved.

Key Links: Peggy Sapp's Work

• https://www.RedRibbon.org
• https://www.informedfamilies.org
• https://www.lockyourmeds.org

Peggy Sapp, President & CEO of Florida Family Partnership, spearhead of Red Ribbon Campaign, has devoted over 30 years to the noble cause of drug prevention and promoting family wellness. At the helm of Informed Families/The Florida Family Partnership, Peggy's tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on both local and national landscapes of drug prevention. Through her visionary leadership, she has significantly expanded the outreach and impact of the Red Ribbon Campaign, transforming it into an annual national event, Red Ribbon Week, that resonates with approximately 80 million people nationwide. Her educational quest, leading her from the University of Maryland to Harvard Business School, endowed her with the expertise to drive non-profit organizations toward achieving their mission. Among her myriad accolades, Peggy's grassroots involvement in drug prevention has earned her prestigious awards, underscoring her monumental contributions to community service. Beyond her organizational roles, Peggy extends her service as the volunteer President of the National Family Partnership, spearheading nationally acclaimed drug abuse prevention campaigns like #RedRibbonWeek and #Lockyourmeds Your Meds. Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Peggy Sapp, exploring her relentless dedication, notable achievements, and the lasting legacy she's built in drug prevention and family wellness. Looking for Dan Hauser? https://www.youtube.com/@victoryovervices

https://www.x.com/victoryovrvices AddictionHelp.com Produced by Chris Carberg and Michael Moesch

Greetings, dear listeners! The milestone 20th episode of The Addiction Help Podcast has finally arrived, and we couldn't be more excited to dive into the questions you've been eagerly waiting for us to answer. You delivered the queries, and we're here to provide the answers. Join us in this special episode as we tackle some of the burning questions surrounding addiction, its risks, treatments, and unexpected correlations.

Your Questions, Our Insights: In this episode, we dive headfirst into the questions you've been asking, delving into the complexities of addiction with clarity and depth.

Question 1: Predicting Addiction Risk: Is there a way to foresee whether trying something will lead to addiction? As we discuss, the answer lies in a mix of yes and no. While it's challenging to predict addiction with certainty, certain factors such as family history, cultural influences, and environmental elements can indeed influence an individual's susceptibility. We unpack this question to offer a comprehensive understanding.

Question 2: The Most Addictive Substance: We navigate the landscape of addictive substances, addressing which drugs have the highest rates of addiction. From heroin to cocaine, nicotine, barbiturates, and alcohol, we explore the characteristics that make these substances particularly prone to triggering addiction.

Question 3: Supporting Those in Need: For those who know someone struggling with addiction but might not have access to immediate treatment, we provide alternative ways to help. From providing information and being a positive example to protecting your own mental well-being and avoiding enabling behaviors, we offer valuable insights into supporting someone on their journey to recovery.

Question 4: Opioid Use and Dementia: A fascinating yet concerning connection comes to light as we discuss the link between long-term opioid use and dementia in older adults. We delve into recent research findings that shed light on this topic, including key points about the correlation between chronic opioid use and potential cognitive implications.

Question 5: Bullying and Addiction: Intriguingly, we explore the relationship between bullying and addiction. Drawing from reliable sources, we highlight the significant correlation between being bullied and later substance use. Discover how bullying victims are likelier to turn to drugs or alcohol, and we delve into the statistics that underline this connection.

Wrap-Up and Call to Action: As we close this special 20th episode, we invite you to continue sending in your questions and topics for future episodes. We are committed to providing you with the insights and information you need to navigate the complex landscape of addiction. Thank you for joining us on this remarkable journey!

The Hidden Opioid Crisis: A Dive into Big Pharma's Dark Secrets
The addiction epidemic is hardly a secret, but the behind-the-scenes orchestrations might surprise even the most informed of us.

In Episode 19 of "The Addiction Help Podcast" we delve deeper into the shocking role played by big pharmaceutical companies and the devastating impacts of their choices, as we discuss part 2 of HBO's documentary The Crime of the Century.

We revisit the story of the “guinea pig” guy, a man pursued by Purdue to be the poster child for high-dosage OxyContin usage. Their aim? To advertise that continually increasing the dosage led to no adverse reactions. This wasn’t for the patient's benefit, rather, it was a strategic move knowing his unusual tolerance.

Some alarming statistics to consider:

• Drug overdose deaths tripled since 1990.
• Every day, 40 people lose their lives to prescription painkiller overdoses.
• By 2012, there were over 250 million opioid prescriptions.

Behind these statistics, companies like Purdue have masterfully created a prescription opioid market. This lucrative enterprise was soon flooded with other companies creating generic versions of opioids, marking the rise of a new drug cartel, not smuggled from foreign lands, but birthed in corporate boardrooms.

We further delve into Joe Rannazzisi's insights from his time at the DEA's diversion control division. The emerging trend of online pharmacies and the DEA's crackdown, Operation Pill Nation, serves as chilling reminders of the lengths addicts will go to and the system's struggle to keep pace.

Yet, the story darkens. As prescriptions became harder to obtain, many turned to cheaper and more accessible alternatives: heroin and fentanyl. By 2019, over 10 million Americans had misused opioids, with at least 1.6 million addicted.

Join Dan and Jess as they provide insights, discuss their thoughts, and question the role of big pharma and government in this crisis. Is the opioid addiction from OxyContin as rare as the Sacklers claim?

Dive in with us to find out.