Pubdate: Tue, 13 Sep 2016
Source: Hamilton Spectator (CN ON)
Copyright: 2016 The Hamilton Spectator
Contact:  http://www.thespec.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/181
Author: Christine Volpini
Page: A8
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v16/n611/a07.html

STOP STIGMATIZING DRUG USERS

RE: Time to get tough on drugs (Sept. 7)

I am appalled by the response of the letter writer complaining about
the need to talk about drug overdose prevention. It is ignorance like
those views expressed that allow the stigma to continue. Talking about
it and making people aware of the escalating problem is how we start
to save lives.

Not all those addicted to drugs got that way from their own choosing.
A large percentage of people are addicted to prescription narcotics
and opioids prescribed by their own doctor!

Drug addiction is a devastating illness that ruins lives and families.
People are dying and families are grieving.

If advertising, providing naloxone kits, making people aware of
resources for the addicted and the families left behind, saves only
one life, is it not worth it? If you don't think so then you are part
of the problem, not part of the solution.

Christine Volpini, Hamilton
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MAP posted-by: Matt