Why Addiction is Getting Worse: A Radical Take on the Failures of Modern Treatment
Dan Manson, co-founder of Elevate Addiction Services, is taking a bold stance on why addiction treatment has failed so many, especially in light of the ongoing “war on drugs.” His approach suggests that conventional methods, particularly those relying heavily on medication and “powerlessness” ideologies, aren’t just insufficient—they may be worsening addiction rates by addressing symptoms rather than root causes.
Elevate’s program, pioneered by Manson, rejects the idea of surrendering control and relying on medications. Instead, it adopts a holistic approach that integrates Western clinical practices with Eastern wellness philosophies, focusing on empowering individuals. At Elevate, clients work on building mental and physical resilience through techniques like mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Manson believes that by fostering self-awareness and emotional regulation, clients can learn to control their responses to triggers rather than succumbing to addiction.
One significant critique Manson brings up is the traditional “12-step” model, which emphasizes surrendering to a higher power. While effective for some, he notes that many, especially younger clients, struggle with this approach. Instead, Elevate encourages a perspective of self-empowerment, helping clients regain control over their lives, a method that Manson argues resonates better with the current generation. The program aims not only to help individuals detox but to rebuild their lives by instilling a sense of purpose and autonomy that promotes long-term sobriety.
Manson’s frustration with the status quo extends to the broader system’s reliance on pharmaceuticals. His program offers an alternative that is medication-free, focusing on physical fitness, nutrition, and peer support to create a sustainable recovery environment. He believes this approach can avoid the revolving-door effect common in many treatment programs, where patients return repeatedly due to incomplete recovery solutions.
With the war on drugs having largely failed to curb addiction rates, Manson’s critique suggests that addressing the issue requires a radical rethink. Elevate Addiction Services has gained traction by advocating for a recovery journey that empowers rather than disempowers, creating lasting behavioral changes and reducing dependence on temporary solutions. This shift in philosophy has earned Elevate recognition for its high success rates and its dedication to innovative, holistic care.
For those seeking a way out of the cycle of addiction, Manson’s approach offers a path grounded in self-discovery and resilience. His radical perspective on modern treatment provides not only a critique of the current system but a compelling alternative that is redefining recovery in meaningful ways.