Memoir of Insomnia, Motherhood, Benzos, and Harm Reduction with Melissa Bond

Today my guest is Author, Speaker and Recovery Advocate Melissa Bond. Simon & Shchuster sent me a galley copy of her new book "Blood Orange Night: My Journey to The Edge of Madness" and I have to say, I was riveted from page one. I was introduced to a world I knew little about which is insomnia paired with a benzodiazepine addiction.    I confess that I don't normally talk to people who are not practicing abstinence, and frankly I didn't know if I would even publish this episode, but I'm so glad that I am. Melissa educated me not only on the nuance of benzo usage, but the appropriate terminology to describe this specific substance use disorder. We also discuss the dangers of unsupervised detox from these substances and the protocols and professional support required to get off of them.   But before we jump in, I'm ridiculously excited to share with you that I have finally found an editor for my new book coming out this fall. The working title is:  "How to Quit Drinking: A 12 Step Exploration Guide: Overcome Barriers to Entry and Clarify Misconceptions to Access a Transformational Program for an Alcohol-Free Life"   Since I started the podcast in 2016, I was exposed to entire communities of people who have had reservations about the 12 step program for a variety of reasons. I gotta say, I was shocked to hear that so many people had such strong negative feelings about a program that I absolutely loved. It made me wonder, what is the difference between their experiences and mine? What were the specific reasons why they haven't tried it, or if they did try it why did they leave? I have heard things like "It's a religious program, or I am not sure I'm an alcoholic, I am not powerless, and it's a cult." just to name a few.   This book is an attempt to identify the reasons, share context and perspectives that will clear up misconceptions. My hope is this will allow people to overcome common barriers to entry so that they can complete the 12 steps and live life alcohol free.  As my gift to you, you can download the first chapter for free by visiting 12stepexplorationguide.com    I'm still in the process of editing it, so if you have ideas of what should be included, there is still time to make your voice heard! Just hit reply to the email when you download the first chapter and let me know what you think!   So without further ado, please enjoy this very enlightening episode, with Melissa.   Connect with Melissa here: Visit Website: https://www.melissaabond.com/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissabauthor/   Subscribe So You Don't Miss New Episodes!   Listen On:   Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/30g6ALF   Spotify https://odaatchat.libsyn.com/spotify   Amazon Music      Watch Full Episodes on YouTube! https://bit.ly/2UpR5Lo