Episode 185: Maia Szalavitz

Food Junkies Podcast

Maia Szalavitz is an acclaimed journalist and author renowned for her expertise in neuroscience and addiction. With a career spanning over three decades, she has become one of the most prominent voices in the field, advocating for evidence-based approaches to addiction treatment and policy.

Szalavitz's career as a journalist began in the late 1980s. Her work has appeared in numerous prestigious publications, including The New York Times, Time Magazine, The Washington Post, and Scientific American. She has reported extensively on topics ranging from addiction and mental health to neuroscience and public health.

Maia Szalavitz is the author of several influential books that have reshaped the public's understanding of addiction and recovery:

"Help at Any Cost: How the Troubled-Teen Industry Cons Parents and Hurts Kids" (2006): This groundbreaking book exposed the harmful practices within the troubled-teen industry, advocating for reforms and better oversight.

"Born for Love: Why Empathy Is Essential—and Endangered" (2010), co-authored with Dr. Bruce Perry, explores the science of empathy and its critical role in human development and society.

"Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction" (2016): This seminal work challenges conventional views on addiction, presenting it as a learning disorder rather than a moral failing or purely biological disease. The book has been lauded for its compassionate and scientifically grounded approach.

"Undoing Drugs: The Untold Story of Harm Reduction and the Future of Addiction" (2021): In this book, Szalavitz chronicles the history and development of the harm reduction movement and advocates for humane and effective drug policies.

Maia Szalavitz is a fierce advocate for harm reduction, a set of practical strategies aimed at reducing the negative consequences associated with drug use. Her work has significantly influenced public policy, contributing to a broader acceptance of harm reduction measures such as needle exchange programs, safe consumption spaces, and medication-assisted treatment.

Through her writing and public speaking, Szalavitz continues to challenge stigmatizing narratives around addiction, emphasizing the importance of empathy, compassion, and science-based interventions. She has received numerous awards for her journalism and public health contributions, including the American Psychological Association's Award for Excellence in Reporting on Addiction.

In this episode, we talk to Maia about:

How her personal journey influenced her professional work and views on addiction

Key misconceptions about addiction that persist in society today

The role of trauma and mental health issues in the development and perpetuation of addiction

Addiction as a learning disorder

Harm Reduction and Radical Empathy

The future of addiction treatment and the evolution of harm reduction in the next 10 to 20 years

Signature Question: If you could tell a younger version of yourself something about addiction and/or Harm Reduction - what would it be?

Follow Maia:

Website: https://maiasz.com/

Twitter (X): https://x.com/maiasz

Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B001ILFON8

The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern.