My conversation with patients about addiction

I am sometimes asked by patient to prescribe benzodiazepines, cannabis or opioids.

My approach is similar for all medications and substances with potential addiction properties.
1. I explain to them that no one (for emphasis of course, I point out the obvious) including myself is immune to addiction; that given the situation, anyone can become addicted. (They usually don’t believe me at this point)
2. I then explain to them the mechanism or cycle of addiction (fear of some suffering/ craving for end of it; seeking a quick relieve / a substitute solution; relieve from suffering; effect of quick solution begin to wear out; triggers the fear of suffer... then the cycle’s intensity compounds); I talk about some real life examples; and there is no lack of stories.  By now, they begin to see how addiction applies to them personally.
3. I then help them understand the lengthy list of other unintended and serious side effects of the substitute solution ( Eg.  Increased risk of falls in seniors; respiratory arrest, quality of life, etc.;  I try to use examples most relevant to the individual.
4. I ask them and help them identify what it is their suffering the are hoping to alleviate.
5. I then offer them a real solution to their sufferings.  (Eg. my Basic Wellness Messages)
6. In my experience, above approach has resulted in various satisfactory outcomes; many embrace the knowledge and come to attend my wellness groups and learn more about the Basic Wellness Messages;

some are disappointed but still respect the time spent and reasoning; none leaves with a quick fix or substitute solution without a clear understanding and an agreement on a solid plan to eliminate the substitute with the real solution.

In my opinion, the key ingredient of addiction management are:
1. That I take the time.
2. That I understand addiction is a common humanity. ( remove stigma and judgement of which self-judgement or shame is most intense)
3. That I explain the mechanism of addiction in a way that can be understood by the individual
4. That I help find a real solution to replace a substitute.
5. That a reasonable plan is agreed upon to safely wean off the substitutes and apply the real solution.

6. That I use “physician-led self-management education and support groups” to help patients begin personal transformations. Disclaimer: 

Above are my personal opinions based on my clinical experience.