Caduceus Unwound

Show NotesIn this episode, Gen and Tom explore a difficult but important question: are doctors really that different from other people with addiction? We unpack the idea that doctors often have specific vulnerabilities — perfectionism, emotional compartmentalising, tendency to intellectualize — that can make substance abuse disorder harder to recognize, confront and then treat. The conversation also looks into why recovery can be especially challenging and the need for support, humility and self compassion, and emphasising the emotional transformation needed. Links:* The model of addiction mentioned in this episode was misidentified as Volkow and Koob, but actually refers to Berridge’s Incetive Salience Model. * Am I an Addict? * Support Services for doctors struggling with mental health and addiction, and relevant resources.Credits* Sound editing by Hugh M Hamilton* This podcast would not exist without the wonderful educational content provided by Hiwote Getaneh at Emerging Voices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit caduceusunwound.substack.com

One of the fears that plagues clinicians with substance use disorder - what if AHPRA finds out? In this episode, James discusses one of the most difficult experiences a healthcare professional can face: navigating the mental health crisis of addiction, while facing a notification to AHPRA and suspension of registration. James shares the destructive impact, but also his courage, growth, and perspective. Together Gen and James discuss the role of stigma, isolation and the need to find cognitive frameworks that are empowering. Links: * Relevant articles: The Devastation and Deliverance of AHPRA * Support Services for doctors struggling with mental health and addiction. Credits * Sound editing by Hugh M Hamilton * This podcast would not exist without the wonderful educational content provided by Hiwote Getaneh at Emerging Voices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit caduceusunwound.substack.com

Show Notes:In this episode, Gen and Hamish have an honest, thoughtful conversation about what it looks like when substance dependency intersects with work. Gen shares her experience of approaching her employer about alcohol addiction, and Hamish reflects on what it was like to receive that disclosure as a manager. They discuss the emotional weight of disclosure, the fear and shame that often surround addiction, and why transparency can sometimes become a turning point. The conversation also explores how employers can respond with care while still protecting workplace safety, and how shared decision-making can create a more workable path forward.Gen outlines a practical four-step framework that she would have liked to have available for approaching an employer when dealing with addiction or recovery. Hamish adds the employer perspective, including the importance of open communication, external verification where appropriate, and maintaining clear boundaries that support both the employee and the workplace. Together, they discuss how recovery is rarely perfect, why relapse should be planned for rather than hidden, and how empathy can coexist with accountability. They also touch on APHRA, mandatory reporting, and the difficult balance between privacy, safety, and professional responsibility. Throughout the episode, both speakers emphasize that addiction is not a moral failing, and that support, structure, and compassion can make a meaningful difference.Related articles: * How do I approach my employer? * Developing a Relapse Prevention Plan Resources: * Services for doctors struggling with mental health and addiction Credits * Sound Editing by Hugh M Hamilton* I would not have been able to do the work behind getting this podcast up and running without the educational content from Hiwote Getneh at Emerging Voices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit caduceusunwound.substack.com

S1E2 ADHD & Addiction: A Conversation with TomIn this episode, Tom shares his personal journey navigating ADHD, addiction, and the path toward self-acceptance and recovery. Join us as we discuss the interplay between neurodiversity and substance use, coping strategies, and lessons learned along the way.Main Topics:- Personal experiences with undiagnosed ADHD in childhood and adulthood- The relationship between ADHD symptoms and substance addiction- The oscillation between hyperfocus and inattention, especially during critical academic periods- Coping mechanisms: spirituality, medication, and community support- The role of self-compassion and creativity in managing neurodiversity- Reflections on early diagnosis - The importance of accepting limitations and seeking help without shameResources & Links:The Power of Now - Eckhart Tolle How to ADHD Services for Doctors Struggling with AddictionADHD & Alcohol Creative & Compassionate Discipline This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit caduceusunwound.substack.com

Discover personal stories and frameworks from doctors who have faced addiction, exploring how they’ve navigated recovery while debunking myths and emphasizing connection. This episode offers practical advice, models of understanding addiction, and highlights the importance of vulnerability and support.Main Topics:* Personal journeys of addiction among medical professionals* Role of compartmentalising, tolerating distress, workaholism, perfectionism and stigma and the impact on finding help* Models of addiction: physical allergy, obsession, spiritual malady; biopsychosocial* The role of connection in recovery* Common misconceptions about addiction and hidden struggles* Crisis and burnout as precipitants for recovery* Practical steps for seeking help and building supportive networks* Guest insights on self-awareness and ongoing recovery as a journeyResources & Links:* Services for Healthcare Workers with Addiction & Mental Health struggles* Addicted Australia - SBS Documentary Series* The Unbroken Brain by Maia Szalavitz* In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts by Gabor Mate This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit caduceusunwound.substack.com

Caduceus Unwound: Exploring Clinicians’ Lived Experience with Addiction and RecoveryJoin Gen, a clinician and recovering addict, as she shares her personal journey and discusses the importance of community, shared experiences, and destigmatizing addiction within the healthcare profession. This episode offers insights into navigating dual identities and fostering compassionate recovery strategies. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit caduceusunwound.substack.com