Richard Velleman — A Life in Addiction Research
I am Richard Velleman, and my professional life has been shaped by a deep and enduring commitment to understanding addiction not only as an individual condition, but as a complex social and relational phenomenon. Over the decades, I have worked across clinical psychology, academic research, and international collaboration, always guided by one central idea: addiction does not exist in isolation—it is woven into the fabric of family life, community structures, and societal systems.
From the earliest days of my career, I found myself questioning traditional approaches to addiction treatment. Much of the work at the time focused almost exclusively on the individual. While this was important, it felt incomplete. In clinical settings, I repeatedly saw families struggling—partners feeling helpless, children experiencing confusion and distress, and parents carrying guilt and responsibility. Yet, these individuals were rarely included in treatment frameworks.
This realization became the foundation of my life’s work.
Research and Academic Contributions
Throughout my career, I have sought to expand the scope of addiction research beyond the individual and into the broader context of family and society. My publications reflect this shift in thinking, focusing on how addiction affects not only those who experience it directly but also those who live alongside it.
The work presented here reflects years of collaboration with colleagues across disciplines and countries. Each study builds upon a shared understanding that addiction cannot be addressed effectively without considering the wider human environment in which it occurs.
As my research evolved, I became increasingly focused on developing frameworks that could explain the experiences of family members. One such approach emphasized the psychological strain placed on families, the coping mechanisms they adopt, and the types of support that can make a meaningful difference. These insights helped shift the narrative—families were no longer seen as peripheral, but as central to both the problem and the solution.
Professional Experience and Institutional Influence
My professional journey has taken me through several institutions, each playing a vital role in shaping my perspective. From clinical practice in the UK to international research collaborations, every stage of my career contributed to a deeper understanding of addiction as a systemic issue.
Working at the University of Bath allowed me to bridge academic theory with applied research, while my involvement with organizations such as Sangath opened the door to global mental health work, particularly in India. These experiences highlighted the importance of cultural context and accessibility in designing effective interventions.
Over time, I came to appreciate that solutions developed in one country cannot simply be transferred to another without adaptation. This realization led to a more nuanced approach—one that prioritizes local knowledge, community involvement, and scalable models of care.
Expanding Into Global Mental Health
My work in global mental health has been one of the most meaningful aspects of my career. In regions where resources are limited, traditional models of care are often not feasible. This has led to the development of innovative approaches, such as training non-specialist workers to deliver psychological support.
These efforts are not only practical—they are essential. They demonstrate that meaningful change does not always require complex infrastructure, but rather thoughtful adaptation and collaboration.
As my work has continued, I have remained committed to ensuring that research translates into real-world impact. Academic findings must not remain confined to journals—they must inform policy, improve services, and ultimately make a difference in people’s lives.
Final Reflections
Looking back, I see a career shaped not by a single discovery, but by a gradual shift in perspective. What began as a focus on individual behavior evolved into a broader understanding of human relationships, social systems, and shared experiences.
If there is one message that defines my work, it is this: addiction is not an individual issue—it is a collective one. And only by recognizing this can we begin to develop truly effective responses.
Families, communities, and support networks are not secondary considerations. They are essential. They hold both the burden of addiction and the potential for recovery.
And it is within this space—between individuals and the people around them—that my work continues to reside.
