Are we approaching addiction wrong?

🎧 Podcast Episode 164 with Dr. Julian Somers

In recent years, addiction, homelessness, and mental health have become increasingly pressing issues across North America, particularly in First Nation communities. These complex problems require careful consideration and a willingness to challenge the status quo.

Yet, as Dr. Julian Somers, a clinical psychologist with decades of experience, argues, our current approaches may be fundamentally flawed. In a thought-provoking conversation, Dr. Somers sheds light on why our existing methods are failing and what we can do to truly make a difference.

Dr. Somers’ journey into addiction research began in the 1980s, when he realized that traditional clinical practices were insufficient to address the growing needs of those struggling with addiction and homelessness. His early work with renowned psychologists like Bruce Alexander and Alan Marlatt introduced him to new concepts, such as harm reduction and the psychological underpinnings of addiction. However, it quickly became clear to him that these methods, while helpful, were not enough to create widespread, lasting change.

This realization led Dr. Somers to pivot towards research, where he embarked on large-scale randomized control trials aimed at finding more effective solutions. His work, particularly the At Home Chez Soi project, focused on social reintegration—helping individuals reconnect with their communities, find stable housing, and re-enter the workforce. The project’s results were clear: evidence-based, community-oriented approaches significantly outperformed traditional methods. Yet, despite the overwhelming evidence, these innovative strategies have struggled to gain traction in mainstream policy.

One of the key issues Dr. Somers identifies is the politicization of addiction and homelessness. What should be a scientific and humanitarian conversation has instead become a polarized political debate. He recounts his own experience of being sidelined by the government when he presented research that contradicted pre-existing political agendas. This resistance to change, fueled by political interests, has prevented the implementation of more effective, evidence-based solutions.

Dr. Somers also critiques the current trend of focusing on pharmaceutical solutions, such as the so-called “safe supply” of drugs. While these approaches may offer short-term relief, they fail to address the underlying social issues that contribute to addiction and homelessness. Dr. Somers warns that simply medicating those in crisis without tackling the root causes—such as poverty, lack of social connections, and inadequate housing—risks perpetuating the problem rather than solving it.

The conversation touches on the potential for Canada to adopt more successful models, such as Portugal’s national strategy for addressing addiction. Dr. Somers emphasizes that Portugal’s success was not due to decriminalization alone, but rather a comprehensive approach that included robust social services, healthcare, and community support. He argues that Canada could learn from this model, adapting it to fit the unique cultural and social dynamics of Canadian society, particularly within First Nation communities.

Despite the challenges, Dr. Somers remains optimistic. He believes that with the right leadership and a commitment to evidence-based policies, we can make meaningful progress in addressing addiction and homelessness. This requires a shift away from the binary view of addiction as either a medical issue or a moral failing, towards a more nuanced understanding that recognizes the social determinants of health.

Ultimately, Dr. Somers calls for a renewed focus on what actually works—strategies that are grounded in evidence and driven by the needs of the communities they serve. This means engaging with all sectors of society, including the private sector, to create partnerships that support long-term recovery and reintegration.

The conversation on the Bigger Than Me Podcast is a powerful reminder that addressing addiction and homelessness is not just about implementing policies; it’s about changing our entire approach to how we view and support those in need. Dr. Somers’ insights challenge us to rethink our strategies and consider whether we are truly doing everything we can to help those struggling with these complex issues.

The question remains: Are we approaching addiction wrong? If we continue down the current path, the answer may well be yes. But with a commitment to change, there is hope for a better, more compassionate future.