Damon Frank & Kristina Dennis

The Recovered Life Show

Damon Frank

  • After the Show: The Real Talk on MAT, Stigma, and Sobriety

After the Show: The Real Talk on MAT, Stigma, and Sobriety

Monday 31st March 2025

Explore MAT, stigma in recovery, and emotional sobriety with Damon Frank, Kristina Dennis, and Judy Acheson.
5 minutes
Informative
Honest
Supportive
Engaging
Compassionate

About this podcast

The Recovered Life Show
Author:
Damon Frank & Kristina Dennis
Overview:
Categories:
Recovery Reimagined
Financial Health in Recovery
Navigating Challenges in Recovery
Creative Recovery Journeys
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Links:
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Breaking Down Stigma: The Truth About MAT and Sobriety

Episode Overview

  • Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) isn't about getting high; it's about stabilising lives.
  • Stigma around MAT persists in recovery circles despite evidence of its effectiveness.
  • Emotional sobriety is as crucial as physical abstinence for long-term recovery.
  • 12-step programmes offer spiritual growth but may overlook co-occurring disorders.
  • Misinformation can harm recovery efforts; education is key.
Two years ago, if you would have caught me, I would have gone, no, no, they're coming in, they're getting high.
In this episode of The Recovered Life Show, hosts Damon Frank and Kristina Dennis team up with guest Judy Acheson to tackle some of the pressing issues in the recovery community. With decades of sobriety under their belts, Damon and Kristina are no strangers to the challenges that come with living a sober life. This time, they're diving headfirst into the topic of Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) and the stigma that often surrounds it.
Judy brings her expertise from the front lines of treatment, sharing stories that highlight the ongoing battle against misinformation and prejudice. The discussion kicks off with a frank conversation about how some recovery circles still view MAT with scepticism. Damon candidly admits his past misconceptions, thinking people on MAT were just getting high, only to realise how wrong that notion was. Judy clarifies that MAT is not about chasing highs but about stabilising lives.
It's an eye-opener for many who might have held similar views. They also explore the emotional aspect of sobriety, emphasising its importance alongside physical abstinence. The hosts acknowledge the role of 12-step programmes in spiritual growth but point out gaps in addressing co-occurring disorders. Judy's humorous take on the stereotype that people with Borderline Personality Disorder can't achieve sobriety adds a lighter touch to an otherwise serious conversation.
For those seeking deeper insights into recovery, this episode offers a blend of personal experiences and expert advice. You'll find yourself questioning preconceived notions and perhaps even learning something new about the recovery journey. So, why not give it a listen and see if it changes your perspective?
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