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Elizabeth Vargas sits down with actor Matthew Perry for an emotional conversation recorded during his book tour for his bestselling book, “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing.” Matthew shares an incredibly honest, inside look at his decades-long struggle with an alcohol and substance use disorder. Despite his wildly successful career, things were not as perfect for Matthew as they appeared: he has been to 14 treatment centers, 65 detox centers, has spent over $9 million on his recovery and admitted that at one point he had a 2% chance of living.  Join Matthew and Elizabeth for the season three finale of “Heart of the Matter,” as they discuss his addiction journey, how his “Friends” co-stars supported him during his darkest days and what advice he’d give to those with addiction. Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: Frequent Questions & Common Misconceptions About Underage Drinking When Your Child Sees Substance Use as an Answer, Not a Problem Suggesting Treatment to a Loved One Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion. To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

Tommy Davidson’s childhood was anything but textbook. Discovered on the streets as a toddler by his adoptive white mother, he faced alienation from those who looked down on his interracial upbringing, and strife from a society clinging to racial barriers. But a breakout role on the now-iconic ‘90s sitcom “In Living Color” soon thrust him into fame—and into the throes of addiction.  Tune into the latest episode of Heart of the Matter as Tommy, now over two decades into recovery, speaks to Elizabeth Vargas about finding a sense of belonging in his unique upbringing, getting to “live two lives” with recovery and why he thinks substance use seems so prominent in the entertainment industry.   Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: Navigating the Addiction Treatment System  Seeking Help: What to Look For, What to Avoid  Suggesting Treatment to a Loved One Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion.  To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

As a child, best-selling author David Magee felt that his life purpose was to write a book that could change lives. He recently told his remarkable journey of triumph in the face of trauma in his book “Dear William: A Father’s Memoir of Addiction, Recovery, Love, and Loss.” A few years ago, David lost his son William to an accidental overdose just one year after his other son Hudson was in a three-day coma following his own overdose. At the same time, his daughter Mary was struggling with an eating disorder, and David himself was in recovery from an alcohol and substance use disorder. But before he passed away, William encouraged David to write about their family’s struggles to let others know they are not alone. With his wife’s blessing, David published this book, which gives readers an open and honest glimpse into the Magee family’s story.  In the latest episode of Heart of the Matter, David sits down with Elizabeth Vargas to discuss how recovery isn’t linear and is in fact a journey; the insight he’d give to parents whose children are struggling with addiction and mental health challenges; and how David is helping other families locally in Mississippi. Content warning: This episode contains mentions of death, as well as in-depth discussions of substance use. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health or substance use disorder, please contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at (800) 662-4357. These programs provide free, confidential support 24/7. You are not alone.  Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: Managing Long-Term Recovery from Addiction Understanding Risks for Relapse, Overdose and What You Can Do as a Parent Substance Use Risk Assessment  Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion. To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

This week on Heart of the Matter, actor and author Cameron Douglas, son of Michael Douglas, opens up to Elizabeth Vargas about his incredible recovery journey, as told in his book, “Long Way Home.” Cameron began using substances at 13-years-old, which quickly progressed into a serious addiction. He recounts that even after many years of struggling, including nearly seven years in prison, his parents “never turned away from me.”     Cameron and Elizabeth discuss his dad’s influence on why he wrote his tell-all book, his relationship with his famous father and grandfather and how his time in federal prison led to his recovery during this special episode, which aired as part of the Mobilize Recovery virtual experience.    Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: Is Your Child at Risk? A Substance Use Risk Assessment When Your Child Sees Substance Use as an Answer, Not a Problem Suggesting Treatment to a Loved One Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion. To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

As an actress, comedian and Playboy model, Jessica Landon appeared to have the perfect life. But deep down, she was silently suffering from unresolved childhood trauma. Jessica began drinking as a pre-teen and didn’t stop. She became so reliant on alcohol that it became “the only way I could survive in the world,” as she describes it. After experiencing a 16-day stay in the ICU involving multiple organ failures resulting from her drinking, Jessica finally made the decision to start her recovery journey.  This week on Heart of the Matter, Jessica joins Elizabeth Vargas to discuss how her parents’ support helped her heal, how laughter played a significant part in her recovery and her role as a co-founder of the Sober Mom Squad.  Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: Get One-on-One Help to Address Your Child’s Substance Use How to Identify Substance Use Disorder & Addiction How to Address Alcohol & Underage Drinking Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion. To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

Bravo’s “Below Deck” star Captain Lee Rosbach opens up to Elizabeth Vargas on the season three premiere of Heart of the Matter about the excruciating pain he experienced after losing his son Joshua to a fentanyl poisoning. Captain Lee discloses that he and his family did not discuss Joshua’s substance use with friends or his fellow crew members for nearly 20 years. Now, he wants to help other families by continuing to open up publicly about his family's struggles.  Captain Lee and Elizabeth discuss his experiences on “Below Deck,” the relationships he’s formed with other Bravo stars impacted by addiction and what he’s doing to help others struggling with substance use.    Content warning: This episode contains mentions of death, as well as in-depth discussions of substance use. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health or substance use disorder, please contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at (800) 662-4357. These programs provide free, confidential support 24/7. You are not alone.    Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: What to Look for – and What to Avoid – When Searching for an Addiction Treatment Program  What Types of Addiction Treatment Are Available?  Fentanyl Poisoning and Counterfeit Pills Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion. To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

In our latest episode of Heart of the Matter, host Elizabeth Vargas is joined by Harold Koplewicz, president and medical director of the Child Mind Institute, a nonprofit focused on helping children and families struggling with mental health and learning disorders. Harold shares that one in five children and adolescents struggle with mental health or learning challenges and unfortunately, over 70% of U.S. counties do not have child psychiatrists available to help alleviate this growing crisis.   Harold and Elizabeth sit down to discuss the impact COVID-19 has had on cognitive development and daily routines for many children and adolescents. He also shares tips for what parents and physicians can do to address and strengthen a child’s mental health.  Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: Playbook for Parents of Pre-teens Playbook for Parents of Teens Adolescent Brain Development, Teen Behavior and Preventing Drug Use  Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion. To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

In the latest episode of Heart of the Matter, Elizabeth Vargas is joined by actor Zachary Levi, who opens up about his lifelong struggle with anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts while starring in hit television shows like Chuck and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and blockbuster movies like Shazam! and Tangled. Zachary shares that after living with anxiety and depression for most of his life, he turned to substances to mask childhood trauma. After experiencing a life-altering panic attack, he sought out therapy which he credits with saving his life.   Zachary sits down with Elizabeth to discuss not feeling confident, especially in Hollywood, how he has learned to practice self-love and his new memoir, “Radical Love: Learning to Accept Yourself and Others.”  Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: Substance Use + Mental Health: Your Guide to Addressing Co-occurring Disorders   Preventing Drug Use: Connecting and Talking with Your Teen  Use Positive Reinforcement to Help Change Behavior  Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion. To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

In the latest episode of Heart of the Matter, Elizabeth Vargas is joined by investigator Paul Holes, New York Times bestselling author of “Unmasked: My Life Solving America’s Cold Cases.” Paul is known for his role in helping to solve high-profile homicide cases, including the notorious Golden State Killer. But his crime fighting success was masked by what was going on with Paul personally. He spent decades with unresolved anxiety and panic attacks, eventually turning to alcohol as a way to cope with the stress.  Together, Paul and Elizabeth discuss how his own anxiety changed the way he views his cold cases; and his own experiences in the law enforcement community, including how making himself vulnerable is opening the door to more honest mental health discussions.  Content warning: This episode contains mentions of death, as well as in-depth discussions of substance use. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health or substance use disorder, please contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at (800) 662-4357. These programs provide free, confidential support 24/7. You are not alone.  Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: Alcohol: What Families Need to Know to Help Protect Young People  Substance Use + Mental Health: Your Guide to Addressing Co-occurring Disorders  Is Your Child at Risk? A Substance Use Risk Assessment  Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion. To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

Join us for a bonus episode! Elizabeth recently joined Katie Couric for her podcast Next Question with Katie Couric to discuss the increasing use of alcohol, particularly among women, during the COVID-19 pandemic -- why women are drinking more now than ever; what factors may cause an increase in alcohol consumption; and what recovery looks like. Elizabeth and Katie also speak with two women in recovery, Khadi Oluwatoyin and Emily Paulson, who have created recovery spaces; as well as Dr. Louise Stanger who gives insight on how to support a loved one with a substance use disorder.   If you enjoyed this episode, take a moment to subscribe to Next Question with Katie Couric.  Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion. To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

Like many families, Dr. Nora Volkow’s had kept it a secret that her grandfather had a substance use disorder and eventually committed suicide. Today, as the director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse at the National Institutes of Health, she speaks out regularly about how important it is to share these stories to help other families impacted by addiction.   Dr. Volkow sits down with Heart of the Matter host Elizabeth Vargas to discuss the growing complexities of fentanyl-laced drugs; the state of mental health in our nation; what the pandemic can teach us about allocating resources to communities in need; and her deeply personal story. For more, see the complete episode transcript. Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: Substance Use + Mental Health: Your Guide to Addressing Co-occurring Disorders  Is Your Child at Risk? A Substance Use Risk Assessment Help Us Change the Story of Addiction Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion. To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

After a counterfeit tablet purchased on social media took their son Charlie’s life, Ed and Mary Ternan were determined to take action. Rather than blame social media companies for sales of dangerous substances, Ed and Mary saw an opportunity to make a change. They created the nonprofit Song for Charlie to raise awareness about fentanyl and fentanyl-laced substances being sold to young people on social media. Many counterfeit pills are made to look like prescription opioids and are more lethal than ever before.   Join Heart of the Matter host Elizabeth Vargas as she sits down with Ed and Mary to discuss how substances are marketed and sold to adolescents and young adults on social media, the alarming increase in the availability of fake prescription pills containing fentanyl and the launch of National Fentanyl Awareness Day on May 10.   Content warning: This episode contains mentions of death, as well as in-depth discussions of substance use. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health or substance use disorder, please contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at (800) 662-4357. These programs provide free, confidential support 24/7. You are not alone.    Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:  Substances Laced with Fentanyl: How to Protect Loved Ones  Fentanyl & Other Synthetic Opioids  How Can I Protect My Child from Fentanyl? 5 Things Parents Need to Know Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion. To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

After losing his son Danny Jr. to a substance-related shooting, Louisiana pharmacist Dan Schneider was determined to hold the powerful figures behind the nation’s opioid epidemic accountable. The critically acclaimed Netflix docuseries The Pharmacist recounts Dan’s rigorous quest to find answers about his son’s death, and his mission to stop the overprescribing of opioids taking place in his community.  In this episode of Heart of the Matter, host Elizabeth Vargas speaks with Dan about his journey to finding justice, turning his grief into action and how families can help address the opioid crisis in their communities.  Content warning: This episode contains mentions of death, as well as in-depth discussions of substance use. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health or substance use disorder, please contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at (800) 662-4357. These programs provide free, confidential support 24/7. You are not alone.  Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: Is Your Child At Risk? A Substance Use Risk Assessment  My Child Tried Drugs. What Should I Do?  How to Identify Substance Use Disorder & Addiction  Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion. To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

Physician and author Carl Erik Fisher is both a doctor who specializes in addiction treatment and a person who is very public about his own struggles with substance use, who is currently in recovery himself. With his highly praised book The Urge: Our History of Addiction, Dr. Fisher embarks on a feverish search for answers to age-old questions: What does it mean to struggle with addiction? Why is it so difficult to move away from substance use, even once it has turned destructive? Who is vulnerable to addiction and who is capable of recovery?  Tune in as Elizabeth sits down with Dr. Fisher to discuss the human capacity for recovery, the institutionalized stigma surrounding substance use disorders, the “double-edged sword” of labeling addiction as a disease, and how recovery took him from Bellevue Hospital’s psychiatric ward to an assistant professorship in the department of psychiatry at Columbia University. Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: How to Navigate the Addiction Treatment System  11 Life Skills That Can Help Your Child in Recovery Preparing for Life and Recovery Following Treatment    Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion. To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

In 2015, award-winning author and journalist Sam Quinones took the world by storm with his heavily lauded book Dreamland: The True Tale of America’s Opioid Epidemic, an investigative work that helped awaken the nation to the devastation wreaked by OxyContin. With his newest release, The Least of Us: True Tales of America and Hope in the Time of Fentanyl and Meth, Sam turns his attention to the rise of synthetic substances and the dangers posed by methamphetamine and fentanyl use.  Tune in as Sam speaks to Elizabeth about the reasons behind the explosion of fentanyl; the connections between methamphetamine and mental and physical illness; and why he believes we have yet to fully confront the realities of methamphetamine addiction.   Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:  How Can I Protect My Child from Fentanyl? 5 Things Parents Need to Know  Meth is On the Rise Again: What Parents Should Know  Learn How Medication Can Help Treat Opioid Addiction    Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion.  To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

To many who knew him in his college days, Darren Waller had the ideal life: a star football player at Georgia Tech who had caught the eye of NFL scouts, he seemed predestined for a picture-perfect future. However, beneath this glossy veneer was someone who was struggling with opioid use, whose self-confidence was flagging, and whose passion for the game he had loved since he was a boy was evaporating. Two suspensions and several years later, this culminated in a near-fatal overdose in August 2017 that would prove to be game-changing.    Now four and a half years into recovery, Darren has started a foundation to help youth struggling with addiction, has helped a teammate into recovery and looks back on his past with gratitude and without shame. Join Elizabeth as she speaks with Darren about the value of honesty in recovery, the importance of humility, and why he does not wish to shut the door on his past, but rather, sees it as the greatest possession he has.   Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:  When Opioid Pain Relievers Are Prescribed For Your Child: What You Should Know  How to Use Naloxone to Reverse an Opioid Overdose and Save a Life  Intentional Misuse of Over-the-Counter Medication: What You Should Know    Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion.  To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

In many ways, Michelle Lipinski is the principal of a high school just like any other. Students rush from class to class from the morning to afternoon, study hard for quizzes and exams, and wait for their senior prom with bated breath. However, one thing sets Northshore Recovery High School apart from most other schools in the nation: All of its students have a diagnosed substance use disorder.   Join Elizabeth for a special episode of Heart of the Matter as she speaks to Principal Michelle Lipinski and current and former students Shaylee, Alba and Rachel about the origins of Northshore – which was the subject of the MTV documentary series 16 and Recovering – what others can learn from its education model and what makes it a “safe place” of empathy, tough love and radical compassion for the students and staff who walk its halls.    Content warning: This episode contains mentions of death, suicide and suicidal ideation, as well as in-depth discussions of substance use. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255 or text “HOME” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health or substance use disorder, please contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at (800) 662-4357. These programs provide free, confidential support 24/7. You are not alone.   Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:  Recovery High Schools: Giving Students a Second Chance  Finding a Home in Collegiate Recovery  Being ‘In Recovery’: What Does It Actually Mean?    Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion.  To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

When the miniseries Dopesick premiered on Hulu in late 2021, it was to a world reeling from the conclusion of Purdue Pharma’s bankruptcy proceedings – a settlement that infamously absolved the Sackler family of any opioid-related liability. The show, based on author Beth Macy’s eponymous account of the opioid crisis and starring Michael Keaton in his Golden Globe-winning return to television, dramatizes the devastation left in the wake of OxyContin’s 1996 introduction to the market and is a powerful depiction of the consequences of corporate greed and government corruption.  Join Elizabeth as she goes behind the scenes with Beth Macy and award-winning screenwriter and Dopesick creator Danny Strong in a conversation about the research that made the show possible, the corruption at the heart of the opioid crisis, and the responsibility they felt to amplify victims’ stories and portray their pain with empathy and unflinching honesty.   Related reading: After you listen, explore these resources from Partnership to End Addiction to learn more about the topics and themes discussed in this episode. Prescription Pain Relievers (Opioids)  When Opioid Pain Relievers Are Prescribed For Your Child: What You Should Know  Opioids & IV Drug Use: Risks, Warning Signs & How to Help a Loved One    Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion.  To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

This week, we’re re-airing one of our favorite interviews from Heart of the Matter with Elizabeth Vargas, featuring Anne and Sam Lamott. Bestselling novelist and essayist Anne Lamott had more than her share of experience with substance use disorders: Growing up with family members with addiction, she also had distinct memories of drinking as a child. Decades later, she watched as her son Sam began struggling with methamphetamines. Today, both mother and son have been in recovery for many years. Re-join Elizabeth as she speaks to Anne and Sam about addiction in the family, the influence of believing in a higher power, the importance of searching for inner grace rather than external accolades, and how it felt for Anne to witness her son’s struggle with addiction as a person in recovery herself. Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: When Addiction is in Your Family Tree  Get One-on-One Help to Address Your Child’s Substance Use  What Types of Addiction Treatment Are Available? Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion. To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter

This week, we’re re-airing one of our favorite episodes of Heart of the Matter, featuring author and founder of The Luckiest Club, Laura McKowen. When Laura first stopped drinking, she thought of it as “the end of all the color” in her life. But after weathering one particularly challenging night, she realized the magic that comes with being in recovery and feeling fully present in her life. Together, Elizabeth and Laura discuss the pain that lies at the root of drinking, the glamorization of alcohol, the power of truth-telling and why Laura considers herself “lucky” to have faced addiction. Related reading: After you listen, explore these resources from Partnership to End Addiction to learn more about the topics and themes discussed in this episode:   Alcohol: What Families Need to Know to Help Protect Young People Is Alcohol Use Spiking in Your Home? Online Support Community for Parents & Caregivers Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion. To learn more:Partnership to End Addiction websiteLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter