To run this task you must have the following required information:

> What the user wants to learn about

If you don't have all of this information, exit here and respond asking for any extra information you require, and instructions to run this task again with ALL required information.

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You MUST use a todo list to complete these steps in order. Never move on to one step if you haven't completed the previous step. If you have multiple read steps in a row, read them all at once (in parallel).

Add all steps to your todo list now and begin executing.

## Steps

1. [Read Addiction Support Framework]: Read the documentation in: `./skills/sauna/[skill_id]/references/life.addiction.framework.md` (Load addiction types, stages of change, and treatment information)

2. Understand what they want to learn:

Common topics:
- "What is addiction?" / "Why can't I just stop?"
- "What are the stages of recovery?"
- "What treatment options exist?"
- "What is [specific term/concept]?" (MAT, 12-step, harm reduction, etc.)
- "How does [substance] affect the brain?"
- Questions about specific addictions

If they're vague ("tell me about addiction"), ask:
"What specifically would be most helpful to understand? The science of how addiction works, what treatment looks like, or something else?"


3. Using the framework knowledge, explain the concept they asked about. Key points:

**What is addiction?** A chronic brain condition—not moral failing. Compulsive use despite consequences, changes in reward circuits, tolerance, withdrawal. This is neurobiology, not weakness.

**Why so hard to stop?** The brain has literally rewired. Reward system hijacked, prefrontal cortex impaired, limbic system hyperactive. Recovery means rewiring—takes time.


4. **Stages of change:** Pre-contemplation → Contemplation → Preparation → Action → Maintenance. Relapse is common, not failure.

**Treatment options:** Medical (detox, rehab, MAT), Peer support (AA/NA, SMART Recovery), Therapy (CBT, DBT), Support services (sober living, coaching). Different approaches work for different people.


5. Answer specific questions with nuance. **12-step:** Helped millions, free, provides community—but not for everyone. Alternatives exist. **MAT:** Evidence-based, not "trading addictions." Long-term MAT is legitimate recovery.


6. **Relapse:** Rates similar to diabetes/hypertension (40-60%). Part of the journey, not the end. **Harm reduction:** Valid for those not ready for abstinence. Reduces risk, saves lives, meets people where they are.


7. Make it personal and actionable:
- "Does this help explain what you were wondering about?"
- "How does this connect to what you're experiencing?"
- "Based on this, is there something you want to explore further?"

Offer next steps:
- "Want to find treatment options near you?" → `./skills/sauna/[skill_id]/references/recipes/life.addiction.services.md`
- "Would you like to talk about where you are in your recovery journey?" → `./skills/sauna/[skill_id]/references/recipes/life.addiction.track.md`
- "Do you have other questions? I'm happy to explain more."

If they're in pre-contemplation (not ready to change):
- Don't push
- Provide information without pressure
- Plant seeds: "Whenever you're ready to explore options, I'm here"