All kinds of books and publications are available to help us understand substance use disorder as a disease rather than a choice or moral failing. In fact, substance use disorder is a disease with symptoms and outcomes not so different from diabetes, heart disease, or cancer. Explore publications that unpack the importance of understanding substance use disorder – and separating the person from the illness.
Looking at substance use disorder through the lens of science and disease
Broken: My Story of Addiction and Redemption by William Cope Myers and Katherine Ketcham
The oldest son of journalist Bill Moyers, William Cope Moyers shares the story of a young man with every advantage spiraling into a love affair with crack cocaine that led him to the brink of death – and how a deep spirituality helped him conquer his shame, transform his life, and dedicate himself to changing America’s politics of addiction.
Drug Dealer MD: How Doctors Were Duped, Patients Got Hooked, and Why It’s So Hard to Stop, by Anna Lembke
Combining case studies from her own practice with vital statistics drawn from public policy, cultural anthropology, and neuroscience, Dr. Anna Lembke explores the complex relationship between doctors and patients, the science of addiction, and the barriers to successfully addressing drug dependence and addiction.
Now what? An Insider’s Guide to Addiction and Recovery by William Cope Myers
Drawing on his own journey and the experiences of those he’s helped, William Cope Moyers leads readers through the process of recognizing when someone needs help, finding treatment, navigating the treatment process, and establishing a support system after treatment.
Recovery: Freedom from our Addictions, by Russell Brand
Offering a guide to all kinds of addiction from a star who has struggled with heroin, alcohol, sex, fame, food and eBay, Brand seeks to help addicts and their loved ones take the first steps into recovery. He understands that addiction can take many shapes and how staying clean, sane, and unhooked is a daily activity.
The Real Dope on Dealing with an Addict: How Addiction Saved My Life by Meridith Elliott Powell
This book provides a how-to survival guide for anyone with an addict/alcoholic in their lives. Authors and sisters, Beth Brand and Meridith Powell, have lived through six addictions in their family. They share practical, insider advice and wisdom that’s only gained by living through the roller coaster that is the active addict.
Understanding Addiction: Know Science, No Stigma by Dr. Charles Smith and Dr. Jason Hunt
Authors Smith and Hunt have firsthand experience with the shame that accompanies substance use disorder. But addiction is a disease, no less so than diabetes or heart disease. In their book, Smith and Hunt explore the science of substance use disorder, risk factors, screening and intervention, detox, treatment strategies, and long-term success.
Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction by Maia Szalavitz
In this New York Times bestseller, Maia Szalavitz explores how timing, history, family, peers, culture and chemicals come together to create both illness and recovery and why there is no “addictive personality” or single treatment that works for all.
We Are the Luckiest: The Surprising Magic of a Sober Life by Laura McKowen
In her groundbreaking book, McKowen addresses issues such as facing facts, the question of AA, and other people’s drinking. Without sugarcoating the struggles of sobriety, she relentlessly emphasizes the many blessings of an honest life – one without secrets and debilitating shame.