Despite all of the tragic losses that result from substance abuse, the most saddening by-product of substance abuse is the neglect, abuse and maltreatment of the children whose parents are addicts. Furthermore, addiction is not a spectator sport. Eventually, the whole family will get to play.

Today’s opioid epidemic now means that every user now plays Russian Roulette with their life. However this caller played the game in more ways than one.

Like a lot of obsessions, it began innocently for this caller. However, against all odds, he was quickly rolling the dice with his life.

Enablers are often thought of as the mothers, fathers, grandparents, siblings or friends of an addict. These people sometimes allow for the addict to persist in self-destructive behaviour by protecting them from the consequences of their addiction or by making excuses for the addict. Although, this caller’s enablers have little interest in protecting their “friend”.

Addicts often prioritize short-term gratification over long-term consequences. That’s what makes it so easy to succumb to addiction. It’s even easier when your dealer accepts credit card.

All animals eventually shed their skin. That includes us humans. We do not only shed our hair and skin cells, but we also shed an old version of ourselves. This episode’s caller explains how painful, yet satisfying that process can be.

Like many chronic diseases, addiction does not just spring up one day. The process of developing an addiction takes place in series of stages and, like other chronic illnesses, often turns into a cycle of addiction, treatment and relapse.

Over-thinking is a common trait amongst addicts. It can be a sign of self-absorbed behaviour that is rooted in a lack of confidence or low self-esteem. His overthinking led to his excessive drinking.

Addiction is often viewed as a defect of character. Society assumes that addicts possess a lack of will power or have poor judgment. It is true that addiction is a defect, however, it is not a defect of character, but a defect of the mind. This caller’s story exemplifies how society’s view of addiction can prevent someone form seeking antiquate treatment.