Dirty Little Secret

Despite progress in recent years, stigma surrounding substance use disorders and mental health issues continues to be the “dirty little secret” of addiction.While many people are using social media channels like TikTok and Instagram to talk about their experiences in recovery, plenty of others continue to be silent about it, even with friends and family.For Leaf, being silent wasn’t an option. He says the very public nature of his rock-bottom moment and subsequent struggle meant he needed to have an equally public “redemption,” which meant going public with the details of his addiction and recovery.“I don’t necessarily think that it helps that a lot of these fellowships have ‘anonymous’ attached to them,” he adds. “Getting sober is the proudest thing I’ve ever done, and I made it to the NFL. It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done; so I wear it as a badge of honor.”Dr. Shorter wonders what the medical profession contributes to the stigma and to the reluctance of patients in recovery to share their stories.“Asking for help is the strongest thing you’ll ever do,” says Leaf. “But you need to do whatever you can to stay sober, whether that’s remaining anonymous or not. That’s the most important thing.Follow The Menninger Clinic on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn to stay up to date on new Recovery Playbook episodes with Ryan Leaf and Daryl Shorter, M.D.  To submit a topic for discussion, email [email protected]. If you are a new or regular listener, please leave us a review on your favorite listening platform! Visit www.menningerclinic.org to learn more about The Menninger Clinic’s research and leadership role in mental health.