Maia Szalavitz is an award-winning journalist and author known for her work in the field of addiction and neuroscience. She has written extensively on topics such as drug policy, harm reduction, and the biology of addiction. Szalavitz’s unique perspective on addiction stems from her personal experience as a former drug addict who overcame her addiction through a combination of therapy and medication.

In her writing, Szalavitz challenges traditional notions about addiction by highlighting the importance of understanding it as a complex brain disorder rather than a moral failing. She argues that addiction should be treated as a public health issue rather than a criminal one, advocating for policies that prioritize harm reduction and evidence-based approaches.

Szalavitz’s work has been featured in prominent publications such as The New York Times, Time magazine, and The Atlantic. She has also authored several books, including “Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction” and “Help at Any Cost: How the Troubled-Teen Industry Cons Parents and Hurts Kids.”

As a journalist, Szalavitz has received numerous accolades for her reporting. She has won awards from organizations such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness and the American Society of Journalists and Authors.

Overall, Maia Szalavitz is a highly respected and influential voice in the field of addiction, using her personal experiences and extensive research to challenge societal perceptions and promote compassion and evidence-based solutions.