Consider This from NPR Does Portugal Have The Answer To Stopping Drug Overdose Deaths?
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Feb 20, 2024 Brian Mann, an NPR correspondent covering the U.S. opioid crisis, shares insights from his reporting on Portugal's innovative drug policies. He highlights how Portugal's decriminalization of drugs and focus on treatment over punishment has led to remarkably low overdose rates. Mann discusses personal stories illustrating the supportive healthcare system that replaces a punitive approach. The conversation raises the question: could these methods be a solution for the escalating opioid epidemic in the U.S.?
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Community Loss
- Louise Vincent, a harm reduction activist, describes the devastating impact of the opioid crisis.
- She highlights the immense personal loss, with many friends, family, and mentors succumbing to addiction.
Liliana's Story
- In Lisbon, Liliana Santos uses heroin but has never experienced an overdose or lost anyone to drugs.
- This contrasts sharply with the U.S. experience, highlighting Portugal's different approach.
Portugal's Approach
- Portugal decriminalized small amounts of drugs and funds addiction services, including safe consumption sites.
- This public health approach treats addiction as an illness, not a crime, leading to far fewer overdoses.