Navigating the Dual Crisis: Ward Blanchard on Fentanyl, Mental Health, and Family Care
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In this thought-provoking episode of Finding New Waters, we are joined by Ward Blanchard, founder of the Blanchard Institute, to discuss the growing challenges of addiction and mental health in today's world. Ward shares his personal journey, including his battle with an autoimmune disease and addiction, and how these experiences shaped his career in behavioral health. We dive deep into the fentanyl crisis, the rising issue of THC-induced psychosis in youth, and the importance of family involvement in treatment. Ward also emphasizes the need for professionals to treat addiction as a healthcare disease and why breaking the stigma is essential to providing better care.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Fentanyl and Mental Health: Ward explains how fentanyl and the pandemic have heightened the need for mental health and addiction services across the country, especially in North Carolina.

2. THC-Induced Psychosis: The rise of high-potency THC products among young people and the lasting impact on their mental health.

3. Family Trauma: How addiction doesn’t just affect the individual, but creates trauma within the family unit that also needs to be addressed.

4. Treating Addiction Like a Healthcare Crisis: Ward emphasizes that addiction should be treated with the same seriousness as other life-threatening illnesses.

5. Accessing Resources: Ward’s advice for families on how to help a loved one take the first step toward recovery and where to find reliable resources.

Guest Bio:

Ward Blanchard

Founder, The Blanchard Institute

Ward Blanchard is the founder of The Blanchard Institute, a comprehensive behavioral health organization based in North Carolina. With personal experience overcoming both an autoimmune disease and addiction, Ward’s passion lies in helping families navigate the complexities of mental health and addiction treatment. The Blanchard Institute offers a wide range of services, including family consulting, interventions, and dual diagnosis outpatient care.

Resources Mentioned:

• The Blanchard Institute: https://www.theblanchardinstitute.com

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