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.

Healing involves addressing the pain and shame that drive addiction, allowing individuals to explore their fears and find healthier coping mechanisms.

Addressing pornography addiction requires reducing the associated shame and stigma, allowing individuals to seek help and support without fear of judgment.

Using person-first language, such as 'person with addiction' instead of 'addict,' can help reduce stigma and promote a more humanizing view of individuals with substance use disorders.

The concept of enabling addiction is nuanced; love and support are generally not harmful, but it's important to recognize when to protect oneself.

Truth-telling is crucial in recovery, as it helps individuals stop lying about their drug use and fosters deeper connections that release dopamine.

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.

Addiction treatment should be widely available immediately when people need it, with compassion and effective care, similar to how other health conditions are treated.

The biggest misconception about addiction is that it's a moral failing or a matter of willpower, rather than a complex health issue that requires medical care.