addiction and recovery

In June, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health announced opioid overdose-related deaths in the Commonwealth had fallen below 1,000 for the first time since 2013. Citing data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an annual death toll that had risen to almost 2,400 in 2022 was tallied at 978 in 2025. WAMC's Berkshire Bureau Chief Josh Landes visited a Pittsfield support center recently and found a more complicated picture of how addiction is impacting Massachusetts.

An interview with SafeSpot Executive Director Stephen Murray.

In his latest novel, “The River Is Waiting,” Wally Lamb gives us a story about one man’s fall and uncertain redemption. Corby Ledbetter, a married, father of twins, makes a tragic mistake that sends him to prison and shatters his family. Behind bars, he faces the consequences of addiction, grief, and guilt—while searching for a path to forgiveness.

In his latest novel, “The River Is Waiting,” Wally Lamb gives us a story about one man’s fall and uncertain redemption. Corby Ledbetter, a married, father of twins, makes a tragic mistake that sends him to prison and shatters his family. Behind bars, he faces the consequences of addiction, grief, and guilt—while searching for a path to forgiveness.

This weekend, a substance-free music festival in Ludlow, Vermont, is raising money for a recovery program co-founded by Phish front man Trey Anastasio.

Residents, advocates and a few legislators gathered in Burlington last week to discuss addiction recovery efforts, what’s working and what’s missing.

In his latest novel, “The River Is Waiting,” Wally Lamb gives us a story about one man’s fall and uncertain redemption. Corby Ledbetter, a married, father of twins, makes a tragic mistake that sends him to prison and shatters his family. Behind bars, he faces the consequences of addiction, grief, and guilt—while searching for a path to forgiveness.

We talk substance addition recovery with Dr. Angad Madan, medical director for St. Peter’s Addiction Recovery Center, and Frank Babich of SPARC Cohoes. Ray Graf hosts.

Drawing from studies and years of personal experience, Dr. Nzinga Harrison uncovers the intricate factors that predict a person's risk of falling into addiction. From genetics and early experiences to the surroundings we grow up in, injuries, discrimination, and cultural influences, she delves deep into the roots of this widespread issue.Nzinga Harrison, MD, is a board-certified physician with specialties in psychiatry and addiction medicine. The new book is “Un-Addicition.”

Dr. Chinazo Cunningham is Commissioner of the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS). She joins us to discuss state funding and priorities for treating addiction in New York State. 24/7 HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY or Text HOPENY (467369) Visit the Office of Addiction Services and Supports at https://oasas.ny.gov