Why Treatment, Not Imprisonment, is Key to Fighting Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is a serious public health concern that affects millions of people globally. While it’s common for many to assume that imprisoning drug users serves as a punishment that would make them quit using drugs, the consequences of this approach are often not helpful, and for some addicted persons, higher rates of future arrests for drug-related crimes occur.
The Flaws of Imprisonment
Studies have shown that incarceration often results in worse outcomes for those with substance abuse disorders. The experience of imprisonment does not help to address the root causes of addiction, and people with drug addiction are more likely to experience poor living conditions when incarcerated, making it less likely that they will recover. Furthermore, the lack of access to needed medical care and treatment and long waiting lists for outpatient care undermines recovery outcomes.
In contrast, access to treatment has been shown to have better outcomes and is a necessary alternative to imprisonment. Treatments such as counseling, medication-assisted opioid treatment, and residential treatment programs have demonstrated the effectiveness of intervening before the individual ends up in the criminal justice system. In contrast to imprisonment, access to treatment makes the recovery process positive and motivating.
Treatment Works
Studies have found that medication-assisted treatment (MAT), a therapy that uses medications such as buprenorphine and naltrexone, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, is effective in treating opioid addiction. It lessens the severity of withdrawal symptoms and helps with the cravings, making lifelong recovery a possibility. MAT has been shown to decrease the risk of opioid overdose and contributes significantly to maintaining employment, positive living conditions, and family and social relationships. Residential treatment programs are also found to give individuals the opportunity and support they need to effectively recover from addiction through cognitive-behavioral therapy, group work, and support from peers.
Closing Thoughts
Imprisoning drug users is a flawed approach to reducing substance abuse. Rather than treating substance abuse as a criminal matter, it’s vital to acknowledge it as a treatable medical issue that requires therapy, treatment, counseling, and, when necessary, medication. Treatment, not imprisonment, is the key to fighting substance abuse and helping individuals rebuild their lives. It is essential that communities, public health agencies, and criminal justice advocates work together to ensure affordable, accessible, and comprehensive treatment for all individuals affected by substance abuse.
