Artist captures own struggles with addiction in eye-opening photo series

All too often, drug addiction is associated with extremes. Teenagers (and a fair few adults) may associate drug use with a glamorous "rock and roll" lifestyle, one that epitomizes excitement and rebellion. However, the reality of addiction isn't characterized as much by these elements as it is by sadness and alienation. Previously on this blog, we reported that drug use could alter chemical responses in the brain that lessen the pleasure we take in social interactions. Now, a photo series by artist Graham MacIndoe has further emphasized the alienating aspect of addiction.

"Most documentary projects about addiction expose someone else's self-destructive behavior, but Graham MacIndoe took a very different approach: He photographed himself during the years he was addicted to drugs," New York Magazine states. "The point was not to glamorize what had become a solitary existence, the monotonous repetition of an addict's daily life."

There is a decidedly muted quality to MacIndoe's photographs, one that could parallel how MacIndoe felt about anything outside of his need. The source notes that he is always depicted alone, a testament to how drugs came to replace everything else in his life - including his loved ones. Though MacIndoe confessed that it was difficult to expose his addiction, he explained that any shame over his past was eclipsed by the pride he felt in seeking drug addiction treatment. 

If you or someone you love is struggling with drug addiction, all is not lost. At Fairwinds Treatment Center in Clearwater, Florida, we understand the complexity of this disease, and will provide the medical attention and therapeutic support you need to overcome it. We distinguish ourselves from other drug and alcohol treatment centers by investigating and addressing any psychological issues (such as depression or anxiety) that may contribute to this self-destructive behavior. This approach was developed by Fairwinds Treatment Center founder Dr. El-Yousef, who is a nationally recognized leader in dual diagnosis treatment and addiction medicine.