Brad Siroski: Facing Addiction and Cancer, and Society's Stigma
When I was struggling with addiction, people crossed the street to get away from me. However, when I was going through my cancer treatments, people rushed to get near me and support me in any way possible. Brad’s experiences speak volumes to the stigma that remains attached to addiction.
Ever noticed how people react differently to someone battling addiction versus someone fighting cancer? In this thought-provoking episode of 'MENtal Health: It's Time to Talk', motivational speaker and outreach addiction counsellor Brad Siroski shares his deeply personal experiences with these contrasting societal reactions. When Brad was in the throes of addiction, people would literally cross the street to avoid him. But during his cancer treatments, the same society that shunned him before rushed to offer support.
This stark contrast highlights the lingering stigma surrounding addiction. Brad's mission now is to shatter this stigma and open up a dialogue about addiction and mental health. With 22 years of battling addiction under his belt, Brad has a wealth of experience and insights to share. He talks openly about how he managed to turn his life around and leave behind a destructive lifestyle.
This episode is not just about Brad's journey; it's a call to action for all of us to rethink our attitudes towards addiction and mental health. Whether you're struggling yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply interested in understanding these issues better, Brad's story is both inspiring and educational. Tune in to hear about the power of community, the importance of connection, and the resilience of the human spirit.