The Synanon Foundation, initially a rehabilitation center for heroin addicts founded by Charles Diedrich in the 1950s, transformed into a communal living experiment with cult-like tendencies. By 1978, Synanon had amassed thousands of members and millions of dollars in assets, including a historic beach club hotel as its headquarters. Diedrich, who coined the phrase “Today is the first day of the rest of your life,” used a type of therapy called “The Game” to deter substance use within the community.
Under the direction of Diedrich, Synanon expanded to multiple locations in California, as well as on the East Coast, including a boarding school in Maine. The foundation, which temporarily had tax-exempt status due to its charitable and religious nature, was widely regarded as a utopia and a model for society. However, as Synanon gained more power, Diedrich became more dictatorial, enforcing extreme measures such as shaving heads and separating families.
As non-addicts began to show interest in joining Synanon, they became known as “lifestylers” who sought a sense of community rather than help with addiction. The foundation’s therapies became increasingly extreme, leading to charges of child abuse, assault, and even attempted murder. In 1977, Diedrich lost a settlement case related to alleged abduction, which resulted in him serving five years probation. He fell back into alcoholism and mental illness, ultimately dying in a nursing home at age 83.
Directed and produced by Rory Kennedy, “The Synanon Fix” features interviews with former members, including Diedrich’s daughter, shedding light on the cult-like tendencies of the foundation. Despite its initial focus on addiction recovery, Synanon attracted individuals searching for a sense of community. Diedrich’s increasing power led to radical measures within the community, including forced head shaving and separation from families.
As Synanon continued to grow in popularity, it faced increasing scrutiny for its extreme practices, eventually leading to charges and legal troubles for Diedrich. The foundation, which began as a rehabilitation center, had transformed into a cult-like community under Diedrich’s leadership. The documentary explores the rise and fall of Synanon, shedding light on the darker practices that emerged within the once-promising organization founded to help those struggling with addiction.
