Thursday, March 28, 2024

Why Should Drug Addicts Be Helped

Ping Stone To Treatment

What is a Recovery Coach and why should addicts get one?

Proponents see supervised injection facilities as the right step towards detox and treatment. In Europe, Switzerland and Germany worked on a successful model in which the safe injection facilities were used as a conduit for offering recovering addicts with a connection to the services of treatment and enforcement.

The two countries reported massive success in offering referrals to detox facilities. In 2007, 45% of addicts in Germany achieved total recovery and abstinence following the implementation of this program. In Switzerland,;43% achieved recovery.

What Is Samhsas National Helpline

SAMHSAs National Helpline, , or TTY: is a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. Callers can also order free publications and other information.

Also visit the online treatment locators.

Imposing Harsh Sentencing That Sidesteps The Real Problem

Stories abound of three-strikes and other mandatory sentencing provisions that lock up non-violent drug users. Of those incarcerated, only about 10 percent will receive treatment for their addiction.

Why its a bad idea: Jail time doesnt help drug users overcome their problem. Instead, it means taxpayers pay the price for the incarceration and the health costs related to the addiction as well as for the criminal activity they are likely to return to after release. A 2012 study noted that sending drug abusers to treatment in lieu of prison could cut crime and save the criminal justice system billions. It can also hold the addict accountable for completing treatment and help spur recovery.

Drug court, put into effect more than 20 years ago as a way of diverting non-violent offenders into treatment programs, is one model that is a documented success. The National Association of Drug Court Professionals notes that drug courts are 6 times more likely to keep offenders in treatment long enough for them to get better,” and 75 percent of drug court graduates remain arrest-free at least 2 years after leaving the program.

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Facing Addiction In America: The Surgeon General’s Report On Alcohol Drugs And Health

This executive summary of the Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health addresses alcohol, illicit drugs, and prescription drug misuse in the United States. Chapters of the report cover neurobiology, prevention, treatment, recovery, health systems integration, and recommendations for the future.

History Of Imprisonment For Drug Offenders

Drug Addiction Treatment

According to those involved in the debate, the only way to decrease the use of marijuana is to bring about such severe punishments as possible to get people to realize the danger they put themselves in if they smoke under the influence, including jail time.. On the surface, that may seem plausible, and it may even have some appeal for some people. Taking this a step further, we have seen the birth of mandatory minimum jail term, an outgrowth of this process. As a result, people arrested for specific drug offences have been punished with jail time in addition to being found guilty. No matter what their background was or what their circumstances were, it didnt matter one bit. There is no way a lawyer or judge can evade the litigation and judging process rules. While this has been happening, the number of people with jail time for delinquent crimes involving drug use has risen alarmingly during the intervening period.

We Cannot Afford to Invest in People Long-Term. Hence, Those Funds Could Be Spent on Projects Like

  • Infrastructure
  • Antiterrorism
  • Employment Schemes

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Should The Government Fight Drug Use Instead Of Facilitate It

Many conscientious individuals in the society are ill at ease with the notion of giving addicts the leeway to use illegal substances without legal repercussions. They feel that the government should not condone and facilitate activities that are a threat to the society. Funds spent on safe injection facilities could be utilized in a more effective way in treatment and rehabilitation, as opposed to helping addicts to continue using drugs.

What If My Friend Isnt Responding To My Help

Sometimes, even the best efforts to help a friend arent enough to make them stop.

Find out about treatment resources that are available

Narcotics Anonymous and SMART Recovery are two self-help recovery programs that offer support from other people recovering from drug addictions, address the factors behind drug abuse and help people regain control of their lives. These websites have tons of information about addiction and getting help. If your friend isnt willing to go to a support group, try suggesting a confidential telephone service such as DirectLine.

Dont forget about yourself

When someone you care about is trapped in addiction, it affects you, too. Family Drug Help provides support and information to family members and friends of someone with an addiction.

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How To Help A Loved One Struggling With Addiction

The best ways to help a person who is addicted to drugs or alcohol may seem counterintuitive, especially for people who struggle with codependent relationships. Some of these methods may seem harsh, but they come from a loving approach with the ultimate goal to help the person overcome their addiction and to help all parties heal. Basic steps are outlined below.

  • Remember that addiction is not a choice or a moral failing; it is a disease of the brain
  • Addiction is ultimately a condition that the individual must learn to manage; no one can take the fight on for the addict.
  • Set boundaries and stand by them.
  • Encourage the individual to seek help; this may include finding treatment resources for them.
  • Find a therapist who specializes in addiction counseling and get help. Loved ones of addicts need support too.
  • Set an example for healthy living by giving up recreational drug and alcohol use.
  • Be supportive, but do not cover for problems created by substance abuse. The person struggling needs to deal with the consequences of their addiction.
  • Be optimistic. A person struggling with drug or alcohol abuse will likely eventually seek help due to ongoing encouragement to do so. If they relapse, it is not a sign of failure; relapse is often part of the overall recovery process.

Seeking Sobriety Before Its Too Late

Critical Question #324 – Should drug addicts be helped rather than punished?

The best way to avoid the problem of rehab vs. jail time is to seek sobriety before reaching that point. Drug rehab programs in Pennsylvania, such as Peace Valley Recovery, provide a path to recovery and wellness. Through a combination of counseling, therapy, holistic wellness, and sober activities, these facilities show addicts how to live life drug-free.

Are you looking for drug rehab in Pennsylvania? Reach out to Peace Valley Recovery today. Were here to walk you out of the cycle of addiction and into a lasting life of recovery. You never need to turn back to drugs and you never need to feel alone again. Were here to help. Give us a call today.

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Symptoms Of Drug Abuse

There are many signs both physical and behavioral that indicate drug use. Each drug has its own unique manifestations, and symptoms of abuse vary from drug to drug. However, some general signs that your loved one may be addicted to drugs include:

  • Sudden change in behavior
  • Problems at school or work
  • Lack of energy or motivation
  • Becoming careless about personal grooming
  • Loss of interest in hobbies, sports and other favorite activities
  • Changes in sleeping patterns
  • Sudden requests for money or a spike in spending habits

If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use or addiction, The Recovery Village can help. Contact us today to learn more about addiction treatment programs that can work well for your needs.

Medical Disclaimer: The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.

Rehab Vs Jail Time: How Drug Rehab Provides A Path To Recovery

Authored by Elliott Redwine, | Medically Reviewed by Dr. Elizabeth Drew, MD

Most drugs are illegal throughout the United States. This includes drugs such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and acid. Other substances like marijuana, prescription painkillers, or prescription amphetamines, are illegal under certain conditions. The legal system is tasked with handling drug-related cases in the United States. Any number of things involving drugs or even alcohol can result in legal action.;

Selling illicit substances often results in automatic legal action. Drug distribution of any kind is a serious offense. But getting caught while buying, possessing, or taking drugs often leads to legal action as well. Anyone involved with drugs in any of these manners will likely find themselves at least ticketed, if not arrested. Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence is grounds for severe legal repercussions, too.

The specific charges a person receives for their drug-related actions depend on a few factors. The type or types of drugs, the amount, the town or state where the person is, and any existence of previous charges all play a role. If ordered to appear in court, sentencing could be as simple as community service or a fine, or as severe as doing time in jail or prison.

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Find Support For Your Addiction Recovery

Dont try to go it alonereach out for support. Whatever treatment approach you choose, having positive influences and a solid support system is essential. The more people you can turn to for encouragement, guidance, and a listening ear, the better your chances for recovery.

Lean on close friends and family. Having the support of friends and family members is an invaluable asset in recovery. If youre reluctant to turn to your loved ones because youve let them down before, consider going to relationship counseling or family therapy.

Build a sober social network. If your previous social life revolved around drugs, you may need to make some new connections. Its important to have sober friends who will support your recovery. Try taking a class, joining a church or a civic group, volunteering, or attending events in your community.

Consider moving into a sober living home. Sober living homes provide a safe, supportive place to live while youre recovering from drug addiction. They are a good option if you dont have a stable home or a drug-free living environment.

Make meetings a priority. Join a 12-step recovery support group, such as Narcotics Anonymous , and attend meetings regularly. Spending time with people who understand exactly what youre going through can be very healing. You can also benefit from the shared experiences of the group members and learn what others have done to stay sober.

Why The Government Should Help Drug Addicts

Get Help Today as Tomorrow Never Comes  Why You Should ...

The medical community now largely accepts the disease model of addiction. The primary distinction is that addiction is looked at as something that medical treatment should be readily available for, rather than something that is regarded as a personal or moral failing that individuals should be expected to deal with on their own.

If addiction is a disease, and if the disease is widespread, then it is a public health concern. Public health concerns are the responsibility of the government to address. Unfortunately, addiction treatment has become caught up in the nations contentious and politically divided battle over health care. Without taking any political sides, however, a recent Kaiser poll from 2016 makes clear that most Americans at least believe that substance abuse is a very serious problem and that treatment should be readily available. The majority of Americans also believe that both the government and the medical industry are not doing enough to address this problem, especially when it comes to opioid addiction.

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Drug Rehab: An Effective Alternative

Jail sentences are more likely to keep people trapped in the cycle of addiction rather than get them out of it. On the other hand, court-ordered treatment programs are another option for those facing drug-related charges. Instead of incarcerating individuals with substance use disorders, sending them to a drug rehab program is a far more effective solution.

Drug rehab programs exist for the sole purpose of helping people separate from drugs and alcohol. Treatment facilities are equipped with the appropriate resources to aid those looking to leave substances behind and develop a new way of life.

If a person is truly interested in trying to quit using drugs, theyll make use of their time in an addiction treatment program. Sending them to a rehab facility rather than jail or prison is a more proactive solution. Theyll be surrounded by the support that will set them up on the track to a life of recovery.

Substance Abuse Treatment Research In Criminal Justice Settings

Prison environments are inherently coercive, and special safeguards have been developed to ensure that prisoners can choose freely whether to participate in biomedical research without fear of consequence. Beyond mere equipoise, clinical trials must be designed so the research is of benefit to the prisoner participant regardless of the assigned study group. Within these constraints, it is important to conduct research to help improve substance abuse treatment and to assist in the successful transition of the substance abuser to the community. To facilitate research in this area, the National Institute on Drug Abuse created the Criminal Justice Drug Abuse Treatment Studies research cooperative, a network of correctional agencies linked with treatment research centers and community treatment programs.

Several avenues currently exist for providing drug abuse treatment as an alternative to incarceration. Drug courts were intended to provide a bridge between drug treatment and adjudication; from the first drug court established in Miami in 1989, drug courts have increased in number to nearly 2000 today. States such as Arizona, California, and New York have created treatment alternatives to incarceration for first-time drug offenders, juvenile offenders, and others. Many states are coming under political pressure to reduce the costs associated with incarceration by diverting nonviolent drug offenders to treatment.

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Prison Health Care For Serious Offenders

A person who avoids addiction would avoid jail most of the time, but criminal behavior can sometimes warrant jail time. Many people dont get motivated in these reform programs to serve a jail time. A recent effort to improve prison treatment for drug abuse led to a reduction in the time individuals spent behind bars. This was an effort geared towards reducing jail time. The in-prison treatment program users are tightly supervised since clients are not permitted to leave the facility. Is it possible that these criminals would cooperate with the authorities request if they knew that their cooperating with the police would lead to their imprisonment in the free world?

Persons in the program have experienced a reduced risk of arrest or drug usage six months after their release from prison. Studying prison-based programs, the deduction was derived from a study devoted to researching it. Many studies have concluded that drug education programs offered in prison affect the probability of people shunning drugs when they finish their jail time, at least marginally more so than drug education programs that do not exist in prison. If the offender has access to a recovery center outside prison walls and adequate medical attention, oral therapy might help those in prison stay off drugs.

Additionally, Programs Same as This May Provide Equal Types of Interventions Offered in For Profit Addiction Treatment Programs, Including:

Hiding Your Addiction Behind A Successful Career

Drug Addicts Should Be Treated Like Patients, Not Criminals.

If you keep up with your job, fulfill your family duties and maintain friendships while also having a drug or alcohol addiction, youre known as a high-functioning addict. These types of addicts maintain a level of success professionally and battle their addiction behind the scenes. Essentially, youre living a double life.

One of the biggest issues high-functioning addicts face is denial. You feel like youre in control because your life remains pretty normal by all appearances. However, your addiction is likely worse than you know.

Eventually, alcohol and drug use will catch up to a high-functioning addict.

Some people can struggle with addiction for years before the facade begins to fall apart. For others, it can take a life-changing event, like getting a DUI or an accidental overdose, to force them to address the issue. Instead of waiting for one of these life-changing events to happen to you, its better to get help as soon as possible.

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Take Our Substance Abuse Self

Take our free, 5-minute substance abuse self-assessment below if you think you or someone you love might be struggling with substance abuse. The evaluation consists of 11 yes or no questions that are intended to be used as an informational tool to assess the severity and probability of a substance use disorder. The test is free, confidential, and no personal information is needed to receive the result.

Addicts Should Be Helped

Just as the title of this article says, addicts should be helped. Too often, I look through social media articles about addiction, only to read the comments section and find myself appalled at what some people are writing. Whether its an article about a huge drug bust or a success story from a person who beat their addiction, scathing comments seem to wind up somewhere in the comments, interspersed between positive, uplifting comments. Ive literally seen an amazing success story posted online and, in looking at the reactions below, Ive read where people have actually written things like all addicts should just die or addicts dont need help, they need prison or death.; The comments about addicts and Darwinism really get under my skin.

Everyone deserves a second chance because most of us would never have gotten to where we are in life unless someone along the way gave us the ability to right our wrongs.

Addicts and alcoholics who choose to get help, change their lives, and take responsibility for the condition they are in are some of the most courageous people I have ever met. It takes a lot to be able to confront the error of your ways, but those that do handle their issues not only recover from a damaging lifestyle but many of them go on to do amazing things. Some of the best drug treatment counselors are recovered addicts because they have such a high level of empathy from having been through it themselves.

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