Description
As drug use rises, the challenge of drug dependency also increases. Some people view the use of recreational drugs such as ecstasy or cannabis as a personal choice, like smoking or drinking alcohol. There are pressures for decriminalising drugs, offering better prevention, health support and education. In In Place of the Self, Ron Dunselman sheds important light on addiction, so that both individuals and professionals can make more informed choices. Drawing on extensive research with drug users and his rehabilitation work as a psychologist, he offers remarkable insights into:
- Why drugs, and the changed states they induce, are so attractive to users
- The origin and history of drugs and society
- The profound effects of drugs on human consciousness
- Personal stories by users, and detailed descriptions of the physical, psychological and spiritual effects of each drug
- How drugs can undermine personal identity, at a time when more and more people are open to spiritual experiences
About the author
Dr Ron Dunselman helped pioneer ARTA, a leading Dutch therapeutic community which helps people overcome drug dependency using a holistic, anthroposophical approach. In Place of the Self was written in dialogue with former addicts, therapists and doctors.
“This well researched book is the work of someone who has dedicated himself practically to supporting individuals trying to recover from the problems of drug addiction.” –Dr Michael Evans, Foreword
“Opens a perspective on another way of thinking. It provides an insight below the surface into the reasons for using drugs.”–Kees Goos, Drugs and Tobacco European Co-ordinator, WHO
“The fascinating information, valuable source material and vivid first-hand experiences help gain useful insight into ‘social’ drugs – of interest to any homeopath.”–Julian Carlyon, author of Understanding Homeopathy, Homeopathic Understanding, in The Homeopath
In Place of the Self was originally published as In Plaats Van Ik by Uitgeverij Christofoor.
