Some individuals with severe addiction may never fully recover, as their brain's balance can remain tipped towards pain even after prolonged abstinence.

To effectively address addiction, it's important to help individuals recognize when their state is shifting towards substance use, allowing for intervention before the behavior becomes inevitable. This requires a deep understanding of their mental and emotional states.

Resetting the dopamine system typically requires 30 days of abstaining from addictive substances or behaviors to allow the brain to regenerate its reward pathways.

Addiction can lead to a narrowed perception of pleasure and options, making it difficult for individuals to see alternatives. Techniques that help expand their perception of time and options can be crucial in supporting recovery from addiction.

When someone is in the throes of addiction, my first focus is on stabilizing them physically before addressing underlying stressors.

After a period of abstinence from alcohol, neural circuits can return to normal, except in cases of long-term heavy drinking.

After five years of recovery from addiction, a person's risk of developing addiction is no higher than that of the general public.

Recognizing powerlessness is the first step in overcoming addiction, as it allows individuals to seek help and find strength in community support.

Those affected by addiction need science-based treatment, compassion, and a shift in societal perception to view addiction as a health issue rather than a moral failing. I think about how much time I lost with people I loved because of the tough love model, where I thought I shouldn't see them until they stopped using or drinking. You miss out on precious moments that you can't get back.