Dealing Addiction: How the Canadian Government Derailed Addiction Recovery is a powerful and unflinching exploration of addiction, blending personal insight with professional expertise. Karen James, who grew up in an addicted family and later battled addiction herself, brings over twenty-seven years of experience in the addiction field to this eye-opening account.

This book exposes the disturbing realities of addiction treatment, revealing a system that often fails those it claims to help. Drawing on her experiences as a client, volunteer, and counselor, James shares deeply personal stories of struggle and recovery alongside accounts of systemic failures. She shines a light on unethical practices, inadequate training, and the prioritization of funding over patient care.

James challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about addiction—its impact on individuals, families, and society—and the ways in which the system undermines recovery. She critiques the use of language to downplay the issue and the lack of meaningful accountability for those struggling with addiction.

Dealing Addiction is a call to action for honest, compassionate reform. It is essential reading for those seeking a deeper understanding of addiction and the role individuals and systems must play in meaningful recovery.