Examining The World Drug Report 2023 UNODC Civil Society Webinar

(Dalgarno Institute Contribution)

Once hailed for decriminalizing drugs, Portugal is now having doubts…PORTO, Portugal — Addiction haunts the recesses of this ancient port city, as people with gaunt, clumsy hands lift crack pipes to lips, syringes to veins. Authorities are sealing off warren-like alleyways with iron bars and fencing in parks to halt the spread of encampments. A siege mentality is taking root in nearby enclaves of pricey condos and multimillion-euro homes…Portugal decriminalized all drug use, including marijuana, cocaine and heroin, in an experiment that inspired similar efforts elsewhere, but now police are blaming a spike in the number of people who use drugs for a rise in crime. In one neighborhood, state-issued paraphernalia — powder-blue syringe caps, packets of citric acid for diluting heroin — litters sidewalks outside an elementary school…But given existing laws, there’s only so much they can do. On a recent afternoon, an emaciated man in striped pants sleeping in front of a state-funded drug-use center awoke to a patrol of four officers. He sat up, then defiantly began assembling his crack pipe. Officers walked on, shaking their heads… (For more :https://web.archive.org/web/20230707185209/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2023/07/07/portugal-drugs-decriminalization-heroin-crack/)

Portugal's crack cocaine & heroin epidemic shows madness of SNP's decriminalisation call The mayor of Porto says people shooting up in the street has become 'normalised' while the police say their 'hands are tied' when it comes to tackling drug-fuelled crime. Portugal is considering turning its back on the failing policy. The nation became the first in the world to introduce decriminalisation in 2001 but now soaring rates of crack and heroin addiction and overdose deaths are forcing many to demand a rethink. (For  more : https://www.scottishdailyexpress.co.uk/news/world-news/portugals-crack-cocaine-heroin-epidemic-30419939)

Also see 

• Challenging the Faux Claims for Portugal and Decriminalisation
• Portugal Drug Policy – A Review Of The Evidence: Highlights Many Problems that Make it Unsuitable for Australia

Introduction:

As we observe World Drug Day in 2023, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of prevention and dispelling the stigma surrounding substance misuse. This year's campaign theme, "Strengthen Prevention & Stop Stigma," highlights the need to prioritize resilience development and recognize the harmful effects of alcohol and drug (AOD) consumption on it. By placing prevention efforts at the forefront and dispelling societal misconceptions about addiction, we can foster a healthier and stronger society. This article explores the profound significance of fortifying resilience and how AOD usage hinders this critical attribute.

Understanding Resilience:

Resilience is the ability to bounce back, adapt, and thrive in the face of adversity. It is an essential characteristic that empowers individuals, families, and communities to overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives. Resilient individuals possess the strength and skills necessary to navigate difficulties, resist negative influences, and make positive choices. By cultivating resilience, we equip ourselves and future generations with the tools needed to combat the allure and dangers of AOD consumption.

The Undermining Effects of AOD Usage on Resilience:

Mental and Emotional Wellbeing:

AOD consumption often begins as a coping mechanism but ultimately worsens mental health issues and emotional instability. Substance misuse can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental disorders, making it harder to cope with life's challenges. Relying on substances to numb emotional pain or avoid reality hinders the development of healthy coping mechanisms and stifles resilience.

Impaired Decision-Making:

Substance misuse impairs judgment and decision-making, leading individuals to engage in risky behaviours and make poor choices. This impairs resilience by limiting one's ability to effectively navigate challenges. Abstaining from AOD usage maintains mental clarity, enabling individuals to make informed decisions and enhance problem-solving skills.

Weakening Support Systems:

Addiction strains relationships and weakens the support systems crucial for resilience. Substance misuse can result in social isolation, strained family dynamics, and damaged friendships. Cultivating resilience requires a strong network of supportive relationships. However, AOD consumption often erodes these connections, leaving individuals vulnerable and lacking the necessary support to face life's difficulties.

Physical Health and Wellbeing:

AOD usage takes a toll on physical wellbeing, compromising the body's resilience. Substance misuse can lead to chronic health conditions, weakened immune function, and overall deterioration of wellbeing. Maintaining physical health is a crucial aspect of resilience as it provides individuals with the energy and vitality needed to overcome challenges and persevere in the face of adversity.

Building Resilience to Prevent AOD Usage:

Education and Awareness:

Preventive efforts should focus on educating individuals, especially the younger generation, about the hazards and consequences of AOD consumption. By promoting awareness and providing accurate information, we empower individuals to make informed decisions and resist the temptation of substance misuse. Education should also include teaching healthy coping mechanisms, stress management techniques, and promoting positive mental health practices.

Reinforcing Support Systems:

Communities must prioritize the establishment of supportive environments that nurture resilience. This involves promoting strong family bonds, fostering positive peer relationships, and ensuring access to mental health resources. By strengthening support systems, we create a framework that enhances individuals' ability to overcome challenges and resist the allure of AOD consumption.

Encouraging Positive Coping Mechanisms:

Promoting healthy coping mechanisms is crucial for cultivating resilience. Encouraging individuals to engage in activities such as exercise, creative outlets, mindfulness practices, and seeking support from trusted confidants empowers them to manage stress and regulate emotions effectively. By offering alternative avenues for coping with stress and emotions, individuals gain the ability to navigate life's adversities and preserve their resilience.

Written by Shaun Tucker – Brand Ambassador for the Dalgarno Institute

About the author:

Shaun Tucker is the Founder and CEO of Healthy CEOs, an organization dedicated to supporting executives in reducing stress, managing burnout symptoms, and achieving a better work-life balance. They prioritize the well-being of top-level leaders by offering resources, strategies, and guidance tailored to their unique needs. Healthy CEOs recognizes the demanding nature of executive roles and the toll it can take on physical and mental health. Through coaching, workshops, and wellness programs, they empower CEOs to prioritize self-care, make informed decisions, and cultivate a healthier lifestyle. By addressing the specific challenges faced by executives, Healthy CEOs aims to enhance their overall well-being and promote sustainable success.

This World Drug Day, 26^th June 2023, let’s focus our attention on delaying and denying uptake of substances for our most vulnerable and their communities, and work toward reducing stigma of those seeking to exit drug use to a healthier, safer, and more promising future. #preventdontpromote #RecoveryPosse

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Links between sexual violence incidence rates and alcohol consumption or the use of drugs, are highlighted in new research on first year college students.

• One in three (35pc) women who experienced sexual violence said incapacitation by alcohol or drugs was the tactic used by the perpetrator.
• [Substance assisted] Coercion (34pc) and force or threat of force experienced by 20pc of women.
• Men experienced sexual violence at lower rate of 18pc saying incapacitation due to alcohol/drugs was a tactic, with by 16pc citing coercion and 8pc, force or threat of force.
• Two in three (65pc) of females in the survey and 72pc of males had what was regarded as a “hazardous pattern of alcohol consumption”.
• Among females, the experience of completed non-consensual penetration was above 35pc for those who used alcohol at a hazardous level and those who had used cannabis in the past 12 months.
• It rose to 44pc among females who had used ecstasy and 48pc among those who had used cocaine or ketamine.
• For male students, the experience of non-consensual penetration was particularly associated with having used drugs in the past 12 months

(Source: Links between sexual violence and alcohol or drug use highlighted in new student study )

Also see The ‘Unleashing’ Of Domestic, Familial & Intimate Partner Violence – The Drug Factor.