This is the transcript from episode 150 of The Path to Authenticity.

It features my conversation with author and empath, David Sauvage, and was recorded live on the Clubhouse app.

After spending more than two decades helping people and their families contend with addiction issues. These are some things I’ve found myself saying frequently and consistently.

1. The idea that the person has to “want to stop” is a myth.

At some point, a person must become internally motivated to change in order to achieve long-term recovery. That almost never happens before a person enters treatment. That’s’ why they need help. It’s the job of treatment professionals to help them understand why they should want recovery.

Things You Should Know Before You Call

Among the more frustrating aspects of the health care system in the United States is, without question, insurance coverage. Dealing with insurance providers in this day and age is every bit as agonizing as acquiring an auto loan or enduring a root canal. As confusing as insurance benefits can be in general, how they apply to behavioral health and substance abuse can be even more confounding for policy holders.

Some Things You Should Know Before Choosing a Program for Someone You Love

When a person finds him or herself calling an addiction treatment facility for someone in their family, they are in a fairly desperate place. The person of concern is not only wreaking havoc in their own life. They are creating an atmosphere of chaos and stress all around them.

So, when you make that call, you’re vulnerable. You’re in distress. And, especially if you’ve never had any such experience before, you’re confused. The only question you might know to ask is “what do I do.”