RRP Episode 36: From Dope Sick to Recovery Capital – Adrian Burris on Reclaiming Life with 4D Recovery

Adrian Burris opens up about his journey from addiction to recovery, the impact of peer support, and the vital role of building recovery capital at 4D Recovery.

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In this episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, Peter and Julie sit down with Adrian Burris from 4D Recovery, a Portland-based organization focused on empowering young people in recovery. Adrian’s story is a raw and inspiring account of battling addiction, overcoming the challenges of being "dope sick," and ultimately finding a new purpose through recovery capital and peer services. His journey from addiction to a thriving life in recovery offers hope to anyone struggling or supporting a loved one through sobriety.

​Adrian’s Background:
Adrian grew up in Portland, Oregon, before briefly moving to Atlanta as a teenager. He recalls how the pressures of adolescence, combined with exposure to drugs like marijuana and pills, eventually led him down a dangerous path. By the time he was 21, Adrian had tried heroin for the first time—a moment that changed everything. Despite initially disliking the drug, he quickly found himself addicted and spiraling into a life of homelessness, stealing, and trying to maintain his habit.

Links to Websites Discussed:

• 4D Recovery
• Real Recovery Podcast

​"I had to remind myself to just stay in today, no matter how scary it was. The moment I stopped future-tripping and focused on the present, that’s when things started to change."
— Adrian Burris

His story is a stark reminder of how addiction can take hold, even when you don’t see it coming.

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The Battle with Addiction:
One of the most striking parts of Adrian’s story is his description of being "dope sick"—the intense withdrawal symptoms that kept him tethered to heroin. He speaks candidly about how terrifying it was to feel his body shutting down without the drug and the lengths he went to avoid that pain.

Like many, Adrian found himself making decisions he would never have imagined, including stealing from loved ones and enduring dangerous situations, like facing down a gun during a robbery attempt. His addiction had taken control, and he felt powerless.

Finding Recovery at 4D Recovery:
Adrian’s turning point came when he was arrested and forced to confront the reality of his situation. During a five-month stint in jail, Adrian had time to reflect and commit to change. Upon his release, he found his way to 4D Recovery, where he connected with peer mentor Cody.

4D Recovery became Adrian’s lifeline, providing him with the support he needed to stay sober. The organization introduced him to the concept of recovery capital—the personal, social, and community resources that help individuals in recovery succeed. Through 4D Recovery’s peer services, Adrian was able to build his recovery capital, gain confidence, and find a sense of belonging.

The Power of Peer Support and Recovery Capital:
Adrian’s story highlights the crucial role of peer services in recovery. At 4D Recovery, he found a community of people who understood his struggles and were committed to helping him succeed. The support he received allowed him to rebuild his life and give back by helping others on their recovery journeys.

By focusing on recovery capital, Adrian was able to create a solid foundation for his sobriety. He now works at 4D Recovery, helping other young people navigate the challenges of addiction and recovery.

Conclusion:
Adrian Burris’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible, no matter how dark things may seem. His journey from addiction to building recovery capital at 4D Recovery shows that with the right support, people can turn their lives around and create a brighter future.

For anyone struggling with addiction, Adrian’s story offers hope, inspiration, and a clear message: there’s always a way forward.

Listen to the full episode of Adrian Burris’s inspiring journey on the Real Recovery Podcast, and learn more about the incredible work being done at 4D Recovery to support young people in recovery.

#RealRecoveryPodcast #RecoveryJourney #PeerServices #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryCapital #DopeSick #SoberLiving #4DRecovery #SobrietyJourney ​@4DRecovery

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