No one chooses to be an addict. It often starts innocently—a prescription to ease symptoms, a path to relief.

At first, it feels manageable, controlled. But over time, that control slips; a reliance builds quietly until dependence feels like survival.

For drugs like benzodiazepines or opioids, the risks of dependence can be lethal.

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Shana Gage, the medical director at Mindful Healing Works, who is reshaping the way we treat mental health conditions.

You'll hear–

(06:30 ) If there is a big overlap between trauma and the addiction

(08:59 ) The risks of prescribing benzodiazepines

(13:29 ) If you can tell if someone is more likely to become dependent or addicted to benzodiazepines

(15:50 ) Why addicts may resist trying alternative treatments

(18:01 ) The lethal combinations of benzodiazepines with other drugs

(27:45 ) What chaotic situations patients encounter with lost or stolen prescriptions

(29:53 ) Why mental health care should prioritize medication independence and long-term recovery

Connect with Erin

• Follow Erin on Instagram @itselevatewitherin
• Learn more about Mindful Healing Works

If you enjoyed the show, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts.

Have a question or topic you'd like Erin to cover? Send a message on SpeakPipe and be a part of the conversation.