[leakybit]

Yes, but how do you stop people from becoming junkies in the first place? Opiate addicts already have access to methedone and some countries are looking into giving pharma grade heroin replacement, but these types of addicts are essential lost causes and will always be addicts.

I believe sentencing laws/guidelines needs to be reformed, but you have to see it from the governments perceptive. How do you stop people from becoming drug addicts? Legalize the drugs your trying people not to use?

[girvo]

> Opiate addicts already have access to methedone and some countries are looking into giving pharma grade heroin replacement, but these types of addicts are essential lost causes and will always be addicts.

I'm a "lost cause"? Thanks. I was a heroin addict from 16 years of age until I was 24. I've been clean for four years now, due to my governments excellent opiate-replacement therapy program.

The dehumanisation that happens when people discuss "junkies" makes me sick, and directly contributes to why a lot of us never ask for help.

[another_account]

Hear, hear.

Coming up to two years clean from an IV habbit. So, also a "lost cause."

I feel if people had the slightest idea just how many people around them are high on some kind of opiate, and how indiscriminate addiction really is that this type of language would be less prevalent.

Congrats on beating the gorilla.

[ncallaway]

> but these types of addicts are essential lost causes and will always be addicts.

That's just flat out not true. It's absolutely possible to beat an opioid addiction, though it can be extremely challenging.

To anyone who may be addicted to opioid's who is reading leakybit's words, please don't take them to heart. Despite what they say: There is hope. It is possible.

[another_account]

Am I also a "lost cause"?

Echoing comments below, please watch your language. You are part of the reason people struggle to hold their hand up and ask for help.