Society has a backlog in the understanding that drug addiction is a disease just like diabetes is or any kind of disease. There is also a stigma that society has attached to people with drug addiction, for them to feel the shame, being an outcast or a junkie.
In this episode, Gail speaks with Gary Mendell, the founder of Shatterproof, who as a parent was impacted by a child with addiction. After his son Brian died, he made a promise to his son that he would spare others of this tragedy. That promise has now become a movement, something that the country needed to bring people together for awareness of the disease.
Highlights of the episode …
– What drove Gary Mendel to start the foundation Shatterproof?
– In what ways does Shatterproof work in changing the stigma attached with drug addiction?
– How was the foundation able to change the knowledge and attitudes of people in Pennsylvania about the disease in just 12 months?
– Is Shatterproof going in the direction of going to the media or Hollywood to share stories and information that drug addiction is a disease?
– They say that there is a higher chance of addiction when started at a younger age, what should be the role of schools in educating the kids?
– Gary’s website, its impressive line up of Board of Directors and the resources and programs available for addiction treatment.
– What recommendation can Gary give to parents who undergo the same emotional experience and are impacted by addiction?
– Words of wisdom on self love and self care that Gary passed on to listeners, especially those who have the drug addiction disease.
Resources:
For more information on substance abuse prevention, go to Communities That Care Plus
Where to find Help and Treatment
Connect with Gary Mendell
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