To decriminalize or not to decriminalize…that is the question, although we can probably bet that even Shakespeare’s Prince of Denmark would’ve cringed at the state of drug use in Nordic countries (and the world, for that matter). Many representatives have argued about the controversial move to decriminalize drugs. Some might argue this policy would allow government officials to help people with a serious illness. Other people might counter that this move would only promote criminal behavior and addiction. Either way poses significant problems. However, as it turns out, one Nordic country has decided to opt for legalizing drug use to save the public. Let’s take a closer look at the historic vote by Norway to decriminalize drugs.
A Vision of Healing
Doctors and addiction specialists will tell you that addiction is a sickness and is not fueled by voluntary decisions. Obviously, members of the Storting (Norwegian Parliament) took this notion to heart when they decided, in a historic vote, to decriminalize drug activity across the country. In fact, as of 2017, Norway is the first Scandinavian nation to make this move.
In an interview with VG, Sveinung Stensland, Deputy Chairman of the Storting Health Committee, explains that Norway needs to address that drug addicts are the victims, not the criminals. He did emphasize that cannabis will not be legalized, but decriminalization has taken effect.
Stop Punishing the Innocent
Reiterating this proposition, Nicolas Wilkinson, Health Party Spokesman for the Storting, emphasizes how the parliament’s goal is to stop punishing people who have been victimized by drugs. Rather than putting these innocent men and women behind bars, the government is seeking to help them overcome their sicknesses.
As part of the decriminalization pact, government officials will be switching custodial sentences with treatment initiatives designed to help addicts. As of 2017, these programs will be seated in the cities of Oslo and Bergen.
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.
