On Addiction, Complexity, and Freedom: Toward a Liberation-Focused Addiction Treatment.

Addiction is reframed as a form of slavery, drawing on the Latin root 'addictus', and personal freedom is proposed as an alternative treatment goal rather than simply stopping substance use. Freedom is defined as creating a complex inner and social life, making choices from multiple options, and pursuing long-term goals. This liberation model is embedded in a biopsychosocial framework, with biomedical, psychological, and social interventions each promoting freedom. Identity projects and harm reduction philosophies are central to this transformative journey.

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Abstract

This article outlines a liberation-focused model of addiction treatment. Drawing on the Latin root word "addictus", addiction is seen as slavery and freedom, rather than the cessation of drug and alcohol use, is proposed as a viable, alternative treatment goal. Freedom is defined as: (1) the capacity to create a life of social and internal complexity and multiplicity; (2) the ability to make choices from an array of options; and (3) the possibility of engaging in long-term, goal-directed behavior. This vision of personal liberation is then embedded within a biopsychosocial model of care and treatment. Examples of how biomedical, psychological, and social interventions can each serve to promote the goal and experience of freedom and liberation are provided. Engaging in identity projects and using harm reduction interventions and philosophies are also seen as key to this transformative journey.