Portugal's Groundbreaking Approach to Addiction: A Closer Look
Episode Overview
Exploration of innovative addiction care practices in Portugal Insightful comparison of addiction medicine strategies in Canada and Portugal Highlighting comprehensive wraparound supports and harm reduction initiatives Discussion on Portugal's decriminalization model Challenges and insights into addiction care in different global contexts
It was just very inspiring. It was just so great meeting those people and hearing what they did and how they were adapting at different phases and the different stuff that they built and developed. It was just very inspiring.
Ever wondered how different countries tackle addiction? In this episode of 'Captain Hooked: The Addiction Project', Dr. Wiplove Lamba and Jean-Paul Michael take you on a journey through Portugal's unique addiction landscape. After a warm welcome from local psychologists Drs Hugo Faria, Carolina Marquez, Cláudia Pereira, Gonçalo Henriques, and Roberta Reis, Dr. Wip dives into the innovative strategies Portugal employs to address substance use.
Unlike Canada's approach of legalization and taxation, Portugal opts for decriminalization, which opens up a fascinating dialogue about the efficacy of these differing methods. One standout feature of Portugal's model is the mobile clinic 'bus service' in Lisbon. This service makes help accessible without the need for appointments, significantly lowering barriers for those seeking assistance. From safe consumption rooms to methadone vans, Dr. Wip highlights how these initiatives provide comprehensive wraparound support including showers, fresh clothing, and counseling.
This holistic approach not only addresses the immediate needs of substance users but also offers long-term solutions like job retraining. Throughout the episode, Dr. Wip expresses his admiration for the highly trained professionals and their compassionate, harm reduction-focused model. The discussion doesn't shy away from tough topics either, touching on the challenges posed by substances like fentanyl. By comparing these practices with those in Canada, listeners get a rich perspective on global addiction care.
If you're curious about how different countries handle addiction or looking for fresh insights into harm reduction and treatment strategies, this episode is a must-listen. It's a captivating exploration that sheds light on innovative care practices and the ongoing challenges in the world of addiction.