Breaking Chains: Rethinking Substance Abuse and Incarceration
The most common service provided to inmates with drug addiction or abuse problems in federal prisons was drug and alcohol education. This simply is not treatment. Being forced to be clean in jail for Only A Few Weeks or Months does not treat or end an addiction.
What happens when society treats addiction as a crime rather than a medical condition? In this gripping episode of 'Breaking the Red Tape', Susan and Dr. Kathryn Winkler tackle the harsh realities of criminalizing substance abuse disorders. They argue that locking people up doesn't address the root of the problem and often leads to tragic outcomes, like the heartbreaking story of Brooke Simmers, who overdosed after just four months in prison.
Her father's efforts to help her were in vain because the system failed to provide proper treatment for her addiction. The episode sheds light on how policies like the war on drugs and the three strikes law have stigmatized addiction, making it harder for individuals to get the help they need. Instead of incarceration, Susan and Dr. Winkler advocate for community-based treatment programs that offer a holistic approach, including housing, employment support, and mental health services.
They emphasize that treating addiction as a medical disorder, rather than a criminal issue, is not only more compassionate but also more cost-effective. If you're curious about how we can shift from punishment to support, this episode is a must-listen. It offers a compelling case for rethinking our approach to substance abuse and highlights the urgent need for systemic change.