By JAN LARSON McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
Focusing on one addictive drug at a time is like playing Whac-A-Mole. Progress may be made on one front, while addictions swell on another.
That message will be brought to Wood County by Dr. Nicole T. Labor, a physician and reformed addict. She will present “The Addictoholic Deconstructed: Addiction 101” on Nov. 9, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Wood County Educational Service Center, 1867 Research Drive, Bowling Green.
People interested in attending may register at https://forms.gle/jPJbPmDbJG6xetkB8.
Labor’s message is clear, empathetic and from a different perspective than many speakers addressing addiction, said Angie Patchen, prevention program manager at WCESC.
“We wanted to make sure to have her available to the public,” said Patchen, who noted that Labor will be speaking in the afternoon of Nov. 9 to professionals and in the evening to the public.
Patchen heard Labor speak earlier this year.
“She was giving the most clear explanation of addiction,” Patchen said. “I wanted to bring her to our community. She’s speaking in a way that anyone can understand it. I want people to hear this.”
Labor, an addiction medicine specialist in Akron, stresses the need to look at the overall problem of addiction – not one particular drug like opioids.
“When you focus on one addiction at a time, it’s like playing Whac-A-Mole,” Patchen said of Labor’s presentation.
Labor’s perspective as a reformed addict also adds a different dimension to her talks.
“She talks about being more empathetic to those who are struggling, and helping their families,” Patchen said.
Her success at becoming a physician, despite the stigma of drug addiction, is also reflected in her message.
“What a unique perspective to have,” Patchen said. “That’s not what you are – you can overcome it.”
In addition to drugs, Labor also addresses alcohol addiction.
“Alcohol is clearly a huge problem in all communities,” Patchen said. “There’s a huge cost and toll to that – but because it’s legal it gets forgotten.”
Labor’s presentation is being sponsored by the Wood County Addiction Task Force; Wood County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services; and Wood County Educational Service Center.
Patchen stressed that even those who don’t register, but decide they can attend, are welcome.
“If they decide at the last minute they can come – do it. We will find another chair,” she said.
The first 100 people who show up with receive a copy of Labor’s book, “The Addictoholic Deconstructed: An irreverently quick and dirty education by a doctor who says f*ck a lot.” Her book will be available for others to purchase.
