Dr. Drew in the hizzy

Dr. Drew Pinsky fights the good fight against addiction and sexual abuse in any format he can.

For decades, that has meant dispensing advice to confused teens via the syndicated "Loveline" radio show.

He recently joined VH1 for the oft-derided "Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew."

Laugh if you must - yes, it's another has-been-athon from the erstwhile music channel. But Dr. Drew is using the format to inform our culture about some serious issues. He's desperately trying to jump-start a national dialogue about the ramifications of sexual abuse, which often yields addiction and other chronic issues. It's a subject few politicians or media types will touch. But Dr. Drew soldiers on, even if it means he's the butt of snarky jokes or two.

For those who want to learn more about Dr. Drew's crusade, check out his excellent book "Cracked."

(Photo: Dr. Drew Pinsky dispenses some tough love on "Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew")