Quote:
Originally Posted by Yamer
The cure for addiction isn't simply removing a person's ability or avenue to use a substance for a set period of time. It's comprehensively improving a person's wellbeing to the point where that wellbeing is unequivocally valued; to where a substance becomes a hinderance to that wellbeing.
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I'm not talking about just involuntary detention (which is already authorized in various provincial mental health legislation). I'm talking about involuntary detention with involuntary treatment at the same time (which, presumably, would attempt to do what you've outlined here).
Quote:
Originally Posted by Yamer
Involuntary intervention can often be a first step. However, involuntary treatment is a soothing solution to lazy and simple-minded people that like to think they're helping, but in fact have never had a brighter resolving thought beyond what equates to "lock 'em up".
You want to solve addiction? You can't, but how about addressing the myriad inequities and social failures that lead to it in the first place.
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I don't think that's very fair. I'm certainly not suggesting that involuntary treatment is some panacea. Addiction and homelessness are incredibly complex. Recovering from addiction is a lifelong process (that will almost certainly involve numerous relapses). Addicts living in homeless encampments are the most vulnerable people in our communities and have all no doubt suffered horrific traumas in their lives. We need a multifaceted, multi-disciplinary response. I just think that involuntary treatment can be a useful and important tool (if used carefully).