Anna David

Many argue that the word “addict” is offensive. In this presentation, Anna David explains why she disagrees and how she believes that it’s only through using the addict label that we can destigmatize addiction. She argues that we shouldn’t be trying to avoid certain words but bringing them out in the open so that we can change the public perception of them. She explains how she believes labels can help us to thrive. Attendees will be able to evaluate and discuss if the recommendation to not use the word addict—including the recent AP suggestion that journalists use the phrase “person with addiction” instead—helps or hurts the cause. They’ll be able to compare her argument about the benefits of using the word “addict” to the many arguments people make that we must eradicate the word from our vocabulary altogether—and se

In the past decade, admissions to recovery programs have increased 143% for students between the ages of 18 and 24. Anna David takes the information gleaned from her own experiences with addiction—which she’s been able to share through best-selling books, numerous TV appearances and hundreds of published articles—and breaks down how addiction starts, develops and ends. Through anecdotes that are relatable to addicts and non-addicts alike, David tracks the part low self-esteem, family of origin and genetics play in addiction as well as the role of self-esteem in young people everywhere. The talk is for those with burgeoning addictions, the loved ones of addicts and anyone who wants to learn how to better cope in a society that’s always gunning for more, more, more. It’s designed to help college students conquer self-defeating insecurities, deal with family members who are addicted and take the shame out of mental illness, addiction and self-doubt.