41: Michele Ryan Shares Her Journey of Change: Abstinence-based Thinking to the Benefits of Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT)

41: Michele Ryan Shares Her Journey of Change: Abstinence-based Thinking to the Benefits of Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Imagine feeling utterly lost in a dense, dark forest, struggling with addiction and watching your loved ones fall into the same trap. Michele Ryan, the Program Director at Behavioral Health Group in Longmont, knows this feeling all too well. In this episode of 'Families Navigating Addiction & Recovery', host Jeff Jones sits down with Michele to explore her transformative journey from an abstinence-only mindset to embracing medically assisted treatment (MAT).

Michele's story is one of perseverance, community, and a profound shift in perspective. She candidly shares how her initial skepticism about MAT changed after witnessing the positive impact of methadone on people's lives. Her message is clear: addiction is not a moral failing but a brain disease that requires comprehensive treatment. The conversation delves into the opioid crisis and the rising use of methamphetamine, underscoring the urgent need for effective treatment options.

Michele emphasizes the crucial role of community support in recovery, encapsulated in her powerful statement, 'Community heals addiction... addiction hates community'. This episode is a beacon of hope for anyone grappling with addiction or supporting someone who is. Michele's compassionate and insightful approach offers valuable lessons on the importance of support systems and the potential of medically assisted treatment in fostering recovery.

Tune in to hear Michele's inspiring journey and gain a deeper understanding of how community and innovative treatments can pave the way to healing.