Family may be the missing piece in recovery—lowering relapse rates and building resilience in substance use disorder treatment.

Content Warning: This article discusses drug use, heroin addiction, and trauma. John Makohen, a seasoned substance use counselor and author of *A Heroin User’s Guide to Harm Reduction*, shares his lived experience of life on the streets, the risks of drug use, and the lessons that shaped his journey toward recovery.

Homeless people and substance use disorder addiction often co-occur, and, unfortunately, many people struggling with both issues are unable to get the help they need. Substance abuse can develop due to the stressors associated with homelessness. On the other hand, addiction can also contribute to homelessness. Additionally, many homeless people have an addiction as well as other co-occurring psychiatric disorders, which can further complicate their living situations.

Multiple Pathways to Substance Use Disorder Recovery is a highly personalized approach that focuses on strength building, individualized coping skills development, and utilizing resources. Helping the person with a SUD find their path increases buy-in tremendously.

Critics continue to question substance use harm reduction. Advocates persist in fighting for it. But the data is precise: harm reduction saves lives. As patterns of drug use shift and risks increase, strategies such as overdose prevention centers, fentanyl test strips, and naloxone access offer a proven path forward. This isn't theory; it's survival. 

The phrase "Lived Experience" represents a growing movement in the field of substance use disorder (SUD) recovery, emphasizing the powerful effect of individuals sharing their journeys to inspire hope and foster healing in others.