The Barriers of Addiction

On this week’s episode, the Mouth Mechanics are joined by ‘gangsta assistant’ Makita Arnold to talk about addiction and overcoming the barriers to pursuing healthcare that it can create. Addiction can hold people back from asking for help, whether because they’re ashamed of their appearance or they’re worried about being called out or reported. Our hosts’ goal today is to reassure anybody dealing with addiction that their dentist’s office is a safe and welcoming place where they can get treatment without worrying about judgment or exposure.   They kick things off by discussing how the shame and social stigma linked to addiction can stop people from asking for help, including with their dental health. Denial, fear, and embarrassment are all reasons that someone might avoid seeking help, and the team talks about how healthcare professionals have a responsibility to be welcoming and non-judgmental in order to help patients get over those barriers. Moving on, they discuss how addicts may be afraid of how their loved ones will respond if they find out about their addiction and how openness and honesty are the keys to getting help. The team also talks about how prescription medications can be addictive, the importance of responsible prescribing practices within healthcare, and the presence of addictive substances in our everyday lives and how to be responsible and aware of these. Finally, they wrap up by looking at the importance of empathy and creating a safe environment when treating patients in order to remove as many barriers to treatment as possible. Listen in today to learn about these addiction barriers, and how to climb right over them to get the care you need and so richly deserve.   Episode Highlights:   -  The signs of smoking and drug abuse -  The major barriers to addicts asking for help -  Being non-judgmental and welcoming to all comers -  The possibility of getting addicted to properly prescribed drugs -  Interventions and how to talk to family memb