The Laura Dowling Experience

← The Laura Dowling Experience6 oct · 7 min

Bitesize Moment: "It Has No Boundaries." — Dr Denis O'Driscoll on Addiction and Recovery

Bitesize Moment: "It Has No Boundaries." — Dr Denis O'Driscoll on Addiction and Recovery6 oct7 min

In this bitesize moment pulled from the Laura Dowling Experience back catalogue, Dr Denis O'Driscoll, pharmacist working in the HSE addiction services gives a straight, compassionate answer on how hard it is to come off drugs and stay off, and why staying stable on treatment counts as success too.

Is staying on treatment for life a failure, or is that thinking part of the problem? Dr Denis O'Driscoll gives an honest answer.

🔑Key Points

• Coming off drugs and staying off is never easy, and that is worth saying out loud

• Recovery is not one straight line; staying stable on treatment is a positive outcome, not something to be ashamed of

• Coming off completely is wonderful when it happens, but it is very challenging, and it is not the only measure of success

• Relapse is part of recovery, not a failure, and the priority afterwards is getting people back into support quickly

💛 If you or someone you love needs support, the HSE Drugs and Alcohol Helpline is there on 1800 459 459.

🎧 Listen to the full episode here.

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