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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Dealing Addiction: How the Canadian Government Derailed Addiction Recovery by Karen James is an unflinchingly honest exploration of addiction, recovery, and the systemic failures surrounding treatment in Canada. Drawing from her own experiences as a child in an addicted household, a recovering addict, and a professional in the addiction field, James offers a unique perspective that is heartbreaking and thought-provoking. The book is divided into two parts: her journey through addiction and recovery, and her professional insights into the addiction treatment system. James recounts her traumatic childhood, marked by neglect and abuse, and her eventual descent into addiction. Her vivid storytelling captures the pain, confusion, and hopelessness of living in an addicted family, while also shedding light on the resilience required to seek recovery.
Karen James critiques the addiction treatment system, highlighting its inefficiencies, ethical lapses, and the harmful impact of policies like harm reduction. She argues that the system often prioritizes statistics and funding over genuine care, leaving many addicts and their families unsupported. Her firsthand accounts of working in the field reveal a troubling disconnect between the needs of those struggling with addiction and the services provided. She also explores the broader societal issues, such as the stigma surrounding addiction, the role of trauma in fueling substance abuse, and the government's financial interests in sustaining addiction through legal substances like alcohol and marijuana. Her critique of harm reduction policies is particularly compelling, as she questions whether they truly help addicts or merely sustain their addiction. This book is so well-written, powerful, and moving that it challenges readers to reconsider their assumptions about addiction and recovery. Dealing Addiction highlights James's courage in sharing her story and her unwavering commitment to advocating for change. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of addiction and the urgent need for systemic reform.
