Over the past couple of decades, America’s drug problem has taken a downward spiral, transforming from an irritating issue into a public health crisis. Opioids, meth, and marijuana are still nestled in the heart of addiction, abuse, and hundreds of thousands of fatal overdoses with each passing year. How we have dealt with these drugs has varied, but the public can agree that the U.S. drug crisis doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon. However, as it turns out, some countries have successfully ended their “wars on drugs” through an unusual alternative: the decriminalization of drugs. Let’s take a closer look and see which countries pulled this off the best.
1. Portugal
Coming in first place is this sunny neighbor to Spain. In fact, Portugal is the first European country to decriminalize all drug activity, which has reaped some incredible results. Not only have the Portuguese reported lower rates of drug-related crimes, but officials have also confirmed a lower use of illegal drugs period. Although the government has set fines in place for drug use, Portugal is focusing on healing drug addicts rather than arresting them for petty crimes.
2. Ecuador
To think, back in the 80s and 90s, Ecuador couldn’t stop the onslaught of America’s drug war. Recently, though, this little country made the gutsy move to decriminalize drug activity in an attempt to crack down on cartels. Now, drug sales are 100% illegal, but people are allowed to carry pot and heroin (under regulations). Likewise, the Ecuadorian government has also created high-quality addiction programs for victims.
3. Uruguay
Here is a country that has made global headlines for one big reason: it completely legalized pot at the federal level. By selling cannabis materials for only $1, the Uruguayan government has been keeping tabs on illegal pot dealers and has even allowed hard drugs to be used by the public. Now, residents of this country can use cocaine and heroin but cannot sell these substances.
Seeking Treatment for Drug Addiction or Alcoholism
Alcoholism and drug addiction are dangerous sicknesses that should never be taken lightly. All it takes to fall off the wagon and become sick is to take that first sniff, snort, injection, or shot before you are rolling downhill into insanity. Still, you can always push the train back up, but it will be a difficult hike. However, with the right mixture of perseverance and determination, you can easily get back on track and be happy once more.
Are you suffering from a severe case of alcoholism or drug addiction? Do you have a friend or a loved one who is coping with the same illness? In both cases, get in touch us at with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of drug withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you are seeking more information about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
