By Robert C. Schoening
Use of controlled substances in this country is increasing with many different levels of approach to address this problem. The primary approach since 1988 has been interdiction of drugs coming into this country.
Why has the interdiction program not worked?
The answer lies in the demand for drugs in the U.S.
Damage to the societal fabric of this county is increasing with each drug-involved accident and death. This cost is enormous as it fractures families along with workplace performance. The cost runs into billions of dollars.
While President Donald Trump appointed New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie to address the problem, particularly for the opioid abuse issue, will he be able to tackle the issue of other drug use taking place?
The issue of substance abuse is not political, but one of national importance that crosses party lines.
While a national policy should be adopted, it is up to the individual states and municipalities to help formulate policies and programs to address this in their respective governing areas.
To accomplish this will take a national effort united in many ways but all with a common goal.
What are the elements needed to have an effective policy on substance abuse in this country?
1. Interdiction of drugs flowing into this country, particularly cocaine and opium, but this should not be primary focus.
2. Step up research into the medicinal uses of cannabis sativa for a variety of medical conditions as identified in the marijuana and medicine: Assessing the Science Base Released Jan. 15, 1999, and do an update on this report.
3. Develop an effective educational program that outlines the consequences of the drug use. This should consist of several presentations aimed at all the different social groups in this country.
4. Develop drug intervention programs aimed at preventing today’s youth from engaging in behavior that will endanger themselves or others.
5. Most of all, develop several different models of effective drug treatment to assist in the treatment of substance abuse, as no one model will fit all. The rate of recidivism should be below 10 percent.
The plan is to develop a demand reduction program with the goal of lessening the demand through prevention and deterrence. This is combined with effective treatment programs to return drug users as productive members of society.
• Robert C. Schoening retired from the U.S. Coast Guard where he managed the drug and alcohol program for the U.S. Maritime industry nationally and internationally. He provided input to the White House Office of National Drug Control and Policy. Schoening now works as a consultant.
