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The addiction debate has divided families for decades: Is it a disease requiring treatment or simply a choice demanding willpower? In this compassionate, straight-talking episode, interventionist Matt Brown cuts through this argument to focus on what actually helps people recover.

Drawing from personal experience and professional expertise, Matt explains why this distinction ultimately matters less than creating the conditions for healing. Using the powerful analogy of trying not to scratch chicken pox, he illustrates how addiction feels from the inside—an overwhelming internal "itch" that temporarily stops when substances are used, regardless of consequences.

The episode explores how addiction changes brain function, particularly affecting reward pathways and decision-making abilities. While the initial use may be voluntary, what follows involves complex neurological changes that compromise choice. Matt differentiates between situational substance use (which some people can stop through willpower alone) and clinical addiction (which requires comprehensive treatment).

Most powerfully, Matt identifies shame as the true killer in addiction—preventing both addicts and families from seeking help. He offers a practical framework for approaching loved ones that transcends the disease/choice debate: creating hope that sustainable change is possible while acknowledging consequences.

Whether you're struggling yourself or supporting someone through addiction, this episode provides clarity, compassion, and concrete next steps. Subscribe for more insights on navigating addiction with both boundaries and love, and join Matt's free nightly support calls at interventiononcall.com for personalized guidance.

Support the show

Join us Every Sunday at 8:00 PM PST and Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday Night at 8:00 PM EST/5:00PST for a FREE family support group. Register at the following link to get the zoom information sent to you: Family Support Meeting

About our sponsor(s):

Intervention on Call is on online platform that allows families and support systems to get immediate coaching and direction from a professional interventionist. While a professional intervention can be a powerful experience for change, not every family needs a professionally led intervention. For families who either don't need or can't afford a professional intervention, we can help. Hour sessions are $150.

Therapy is a very important way to take care of your mental health. This can happen from the comfort of your own home or office. If you need therapy and want to get a discount on your first month of services please try Better Help.

If you want to know more about the host's private practice please visit:
Matt Brown: Freedom Interventions

Follow the host on TikTok
Matt: @mattbrowninterventionist


If you have a question that we can answer on the show, please email us at matt@partywreckers.com