Justice Speaks Podcast Episode #34

In this episode of Justice Speaks, JSI Vice President David Wallace interviews Dr. Robert DuPont, a pioneering figure in addiction treatment and recovery, about his 50-year career, groundbreaking efforts, and his latest book, Chemical Slavery: Understanding Addiction and Stopping the Drug Epidemic.

Dr. DuPont’s Groundbreaking Work

Dr. DuPont began his career as a psychiatrist in the Washington D.C. prison system, where he identified the link between rising crime rates and the heroin epidemic of the 1960s. Recognizing the urgent need for effective treatment, he helped establish one of the first methadone clinics in 1970. Over three years, the clinic treated 15,000 individuals, halved the city’s crime rate, and drastically reduced overdose deaths. His success led to his appointments as the first Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and the second White House Drug Chief.

Addiction: A Public Health and Justice Issue

Dr. DuPont discusses the interplay between public health and criminal justice in combating addiction. He emphasizes that the justice system can leverage treatment as a path to recovery, noting that voluntary treatment often falls short without structured accountability. Programs like Drug Treatment Courts exemplify how justice can support recovery.

The Evolving Drug Epidemic

While the 1960s focused on heroin, today’s crisis is a poly-drug problem. Dr. DuPont reveals that 95% of overdose deaths involve multiple substances, including alcohol and marijuana. He explains how addiction hijacks the brain, leading to continued use despite devastating consequences.

Insights from Chemical Slavery

Dr. DuPont’s latest book sheds light on the nature of addiction and offers solutions to combat the epidemic. He compares addiction to slavery, describing how substances take control of the user’s life. The book highlights stories of recovery and emphasizes the power of resilience and support in overcoming addiction.

Prevention and Hope

Dr. DuPont underscores the importance of prevention, particularly during adolescence when the brain is most vulnerable. He highlights a promising trend: a significant increase in teens abstaining from alcohol and drugs, rising from 3% in 1983 to 26% in 2017. He encourages parents to set clear standards and foster open communication to support drug-free lifestyles.

A Call to Action

To learn more or purchase Chemical Slavery: Understanding Addiction and Stopping the Drug Epidemic, click HERE.

NOTE: Throughout the discussion, Dr. DuPont uses the term “addiction” instead of the phrase “substance use disorder.”  He notes that the people who are addicted use that term and he will continue to use the same term they use.

Watch part of the discussion here