Is it better to put drug addicts in jail or send them to mandatory drug treatment programs?
I believe that it is not only better but more beneficial to enroll drug addicts in drug treatment programs. Addiction is very powerful, it can lead people to do things that they normally wouldn't do. Many crimes are committed solely in the pursuit of addiction.
With drug treatment, addicts can get help and learn steps to living a drug free lifestyle. Programs such as the 12 step support alcoholics and guide them to a healthier life, mentally and spiritually. Treatment programs also offer tools for recovery and relapse prevention. I think addicts need help and support to get off drugs. I'm not advocating that drug addicts and offenders go unpunished, but the prison system is completely overcrowded with non violent criminals, not all drug addicts are criminals. By providing drug abusers treatment makes it less likely they will return to the criminal justice system.
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I agree. I was very fortunate and unfortunate to have an aunt who was a drug addict all my life. She lost her son in a bitter custody battle and she just could not cope with the loss. For years I thought she was the greatest aunt in the world. She would do crazy fun things, like tell me and my cousins we were "go'in to England" and then preceded to drive on the wrong side of the road until we would nearly crash and we would all laugh hysterically. As I got older, I started to realize this behavior wasn't normal and my aunt's addiction became worse. She spiraled down hill fast breaking the family's hearts as she went. Each time she was released from prison, she seemed to be a little more beaten down, which lead to heavier use. Four years ago, she was in a methadone treatment program and she had been doing great for months. One day, after her treatment, she fell asleep and never awoke. The methadone clinic had accidentally overdosed her. While the irony still stings, I feel very lucky to have had her in my life, because she taught me so much about exile and the pain of judgement. And while she was an addict, jail is not the answer for people who hurt themselves the most.
ReplyDeleteDrug treatment programs can be beneficial. If our prison system was more rehabilitative that would be beneficial also but it seems to make people worse. I also believe drug programs should offer more resources to alternative lifestyles. Many people get into selling and using drugs because they feel it is the only way to get ahead financially or that it's a typical way to live because that is what they were taught as a child. Opening doors and showing one's possible potential can increase a person's drive.
ReplyDeleteGreat blog!
Gabriela said:
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that people who are addicted to drugs not just need to be sending at jail but needs help with treatment programs. As you mention in your blog there are some people who are criminals but some not. However, what catch my attention in you blog it was something very important that you mention and it was about how addicted people not just need help mentally but spiritually as well.