Substance Use Treatment

Substance Use Treatment

 Post your interpretation of how we, as a society, approach substance use and misuse, based on the time line. How much (or how little) have we evolved? In what direction is our philosophy of treatment headed? Incorporate a recent (within the past 6 months) news item relating to substance use/misuse. Explain how this news item illustrates current and/or historical perspectives.

• Van Wormer, K., & Davis, D. R. (2018). Addiction treatment: A strengths perspective (4th ed.). Cengage Learning.
  • Chapter 2, “Historical Perspectives” (pp. 51–85)

APA FORMAT and Citation 7edition

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Substance Use Treatment

Substance use and misuse have been integral to human history, with societal approaches fluctuating between punitive and rehabilitative models. As explored by Van Wormer and Davis (2018), historical perspectives on addiction have oscillated between moralistic condemnation and scientific understanding. Early views framed substance misuse as a moral failing, justifying harsh penalties and ostracism. Over time, however, societal perspectives have shifted toward understanding addiction as a disease, influenced by advancements in neuroscience and psychology.

Evolution of Societal Approaches

While there has been progress in treating addiction as a medical condition, punitive remnants remain embedded in policies such as mandatory minimum sentencing and the criminalization of drug possession. For example, the War on Drugs, initiated in the 1970s, disproportionately targeted marginalized communities, focusing more on punishment than treatment. Today, harm reduction strategies like needle exchange programs and medication-assisted treatment signal a shift toward compassionate care. However, stigma continues to hinder access to treatment and acceptance of addiction as a health issue. Substance Use Treatment

Current Trends and Philosophy of Treatment

The contemporary philosophy of treatment is moving toward a strengths-based approach, emphasizing resilience, empowerment, and harm reduction rather than abstinence alone (Van Wormer & Davis, 2018). Recent initiatives focus on integrating behavioral health services with primary care and expanding access to evidence-based treatments like buprenorphine and methadone. Public health campaigns aim to reduce stigma and educate communities about addiction as a treatable condition.

Recent News Example

A significant development within the last six months illustrates these trends: the Biden administration’s announcement to allocate $1.5 billion to combat the opioid crisis through harm reduction and prevention efforts (White House, 2023). This funding supports initiatives like distributing naloxone (an opioid overdose reversal drug), increasing access to treatment programs, and reducing barriers to harm reduction services. This marks a shift in U.S. policy, recognizing the necessity of prevention and compassionate care over punitive measures.

Connection to Historical Perspectives

This policy reflects a departure from the punitive mindset of the War on Drugs era. It aligns with the historical evolution described by Van Wormer and Davis (2018), moving toward a public health approach that prioritizes prevention and treatment. However, resistance to harm reduction programs in some states indicates lingering stigma and a need for further societal change.

Conclusion

While progress has been made in addressing substance use and misuse through compassionate and evidence-based approaches, societal attitudes and policies still reflect a mixture of historical condemnation and modern understanding. Continued efforts to de-stigmatize addiction and expand harm reduction strategies will be critical in shaping a more humane and effective response to substance misuse.

References

Van Wormer, K., & Davis, D. R. (2018). Addiction treatment: A strengths perspective (4th ed.). Cengage Learning.

The White House. (2023). Biden-Harris administration awards $1.5 billion to combat opioid crisis, expand harm reduction efforts. Retrieved from White House Website. (Use the proper URL and access date for APA formatting when citing a specific online source.)