Persecution of drug users

REGARDING the story (Northern Territory News, March 1) “Mum desperate for sniffer son help”.

This is a prime example of the inadequacy of the NT Health Department, and the “service” it provides.

According to the “authorities”, those who work in the field of addiction through Alcoholics Anon, Narcotics Anon and Gamblers Anon, addiction is a mental health issue.

By demonizing all involved, they persecute responsible users, victimize addicts and refuse to address drug abuse in a responsible way.

The demonisation and criminalization of addicts allows the hospital staff to feel justified in ignoring people who are in desperate need of responsible treatment.

Robert Fyffe, The Narrows