Which course of action works best to combat drug addiction? This question has been tossed around by leaders of countries around the world, and results have varied greatly. Should leaders provide assistance to people suffering from addiction to ensure these men and women heal properly and lead better lives? On the other hand, should governments simply not tolerate any use of hard or soft drugs? Needless to say, the zero-tolerance policy has its ups and downs, but Sweden, in particular, has drawn a great amount of criticism for its version. Is this practice helping or hindering the Scandinavian powerhouse? Let’s take a closer look and find out some more information.
Hard and Soft: No Difference
Ultimately, Sweden’s zero-tolerance policy is cemented in a vision of a “drug-free society,” a noble cause, but according to reports, also a highly relentless one. Shaped by the Association for a Drug Free Society (founded by Nils Bejerot, the father of the Swedish Drug Policy), this program cracks down on the tiniest drug-related crimes and provides the same penalties to people who use hard or soft drugs. In fact, Swedish police officers can arrest people whom they suspect to be “high.”
Opioids, Ho!
While the program has appeared to work with many drugs, including marijuana, Sweden is now struggling to cope with a monster that is all-too-familiar for us Americans: opioids. As a result, the United Nations has criticized the zero-tolerance policy for the lack of needle exchange programs, which buffers against the spread of disease. Plus, the death toll speaks for itself: Sweden currently boasts the 2nd-highest overdose-related death rate in Europe (lagging behind Estonia), with 93 million fatalities as of 2015.
Ultimately, Annika Strandhäll, Sweden’s Minister of Health and Social Affairs, has reinforced the fact that Sweden needs to consider a stronger overall drug policy.
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.
