–Written by Rachael Rumbelow
To the world, the addict is a criminal. Drugs have been criminalised for decades resulting in substance abusers being punished, isolated and shamed. The world perceived the addict as the ‘other’ and disassociated themselves with addicts and their behaviours, despite a large proportion of the world population being impacted by substance abuse disorder. This has shaped the way in which we treat addiction. Ultimately, there is a stigma against addiction and those suffering with substance abuse disorder.
Stigma is a social phenomenon whereby individuals who deviate from what society deems as the ‘norm’ are seen as less desirable and are chastised or condemned accordingly. The stigma against addicts has resulted in a social hierarchy in which individuals with addiction are seen as less important, devalued and rejected.
This view has impacted the way which addicts experience treatment. Punitive treatments have been a long-lasting method, however, recent research shows that this form of treatment does not have a significantly positive result. Correctional facilities do not have the equipment or skills needed in addiction treatment despite commonly being used as treatment facilities.
“The opposite of addiction is not sobriety. The opposite of addiction is human connection.”
Johann Hari is a British-Swiss journalist and writer. As a two-time New York Times top selling author, in his first book Chasing the Scream: The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs, as well as in his world-famous TED Talk, Hari discusses the stigma surrounding addiction and how it is expected that recovery would be more successful through better connection between society and the addict. Through years of research and travelling the world, Hari expresses his belief that addiction is not seen in the correct light. Famously, Hari shares that the best way to combat substance abuse is through human connection and inclusion.
This need for connection and acceptance has changed how many perceive substance abusers, and how they believe they should be treated, daily and in active recovery. Many are calling for less punishment and reprimanding, and more sympathy and reformation. Portugal was the first country to decriminalize the consumption of all drugs, since then, their drug-induced death rate had decreased to 5 times lower than the average in Europe, their HIV infection rate is dropped significantly and drug use has declined. By turning their focus on to reintegration into society rather than punishment, they are achieving great success in addiction recovery. This means that they have become one of the most prominent and influential countries in the decriminalisation of drugs, so as to decriminalise the addict.
Humans are social creatures. This means that it is imperative that individuals form bonds with others, whether it be through human touch, mutual interests, conversation or common goals. In addiction recovery, research is finding that the stronger an individual’s bonds are with others, the greater their sense of community is, the more likely they are to maintain sober living. Positive relationships provide security, lower stress, promote a positive self-image, and offer acceptance, these all benefit the recovering addict with improving their mental wellbeing. Furthermore, they can result in fewer health issues, such as reduced dementia risk, increased overall longevity in life, a strengthened immune system and decreased inflammation. In rehabilitation facilities, community connection is imperative and encouraged. Family involvement is becoming more common in the recovery process as individuals are encouraged to repair or strengthen their bonds with family and friends.
Ultimately, recovery has a heightened chance of success should an individual feel supported by family, friends and society. A more humanistic view of the addict is spreading worldwide and people are changing their behaviours and opinions. More people should be able to achieve lifetime sobriety, however, it is vital that society no longer sees the addict as a criminal, but rather as a person who needs a helping hand.
