by Kimberly Hollister
First, Let’s start with two Ted Talk videos:
Michael Botticelli “Addiction is a disease, we should treat it like one” (10 minutes)
Johann Hari “Everything you think you know about addiction is wrong” (14 minutes)
At first glance these two men might appear to have very different stances on addiction and the opioid crisis; however, I believe that both are after the same goal. They might disagree on how an addiction manifest; however, both men see the solution as the same. The current opioid crisis is having a devastating impact on the Country and recently speaking to a family member we discussed how we are losing a whole generation. Addiction does not just impact the individual but whole system that surrounds that individual. Both videos speak to the importance of creating connection and community when someone decides to take the step into recovery. A recent TIME article (read here) stated that 25 percent of our prison population could be better served with treatment, probation or alternative programs for all non‐violent crimes. Where should our resources be going? Addiction is a complex issue; however, the United States could look to how other countries have attempted to manage their citizens who are struggling with addiction (i.e. Portugal). Focusing on the treatment aspect of recovery versus the punitive actions.
Resources for loved ones who are struggling and their family members:
https://namimass.org/resources/substance-‐abuse
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-‐help/national-‐helpline
https://helplinema.org/
https://www.mass.gov/orgs/bureau-‐of-‐substance-‐addiction-‐services
