LOOK AT POSITIVE SIDE OF METHADONE

I fail to understand why it is so difficult to see the positive side of
methadone and methadone clinics. Clinics do not just hand out methadone to
people. Intense individual and group therapy are not just offered, but
mandatory for patients to stay in the program. Patients must show
compliance to standards of the clinic, and these are strict standards. For
patients to undergo these standards shows effort on their part that they
want and need help. Patients are volunteering for help. Patients are not
tied down by the clinic; they may walk away at any time. As far as cost,
what price is put on a person attempting to put their life back in order
and to begin to become a productive member of society instead of doing drugs?

Methadone is a medication prescribed by a doctor. Methadone clinics are
here to stay, so instead of feeding the negativity, why not use that energy
to educate yourself and others on the positive side of methadone and
methadone clinics? If you have a loved one dependent on drugs, wouldn't you
want help nearby? Methadone clinics do not bring criminals and others
dependent on drugs to the area; these people are already here wanting and
needing help. They are your neighbors, as being drug dependent knows no
barriers.

Cheri Jarvis

Tazewell, Va.