RUSH'S TREATMENT

Will Limbaugh's Experience Change View Of Addiction?

It is tempting to respond to Rush Limbaugh's dramatic revelation last week
about his addiction to painkillers with the same dismissive disdain the
popular radio host has aimed at other drug addicts in the past.

It is tempting to throw words from Limbaugh's show back in his face: "And so
if people are violating the law by doing drugs, they ought to be accused and
they ought to be convicted and they ought to be sent up."

And, indeed, Limbaugh should face the same legal consequences for his
actions as any kid on the street would, despite his fame and considerable
fortune. But as tempting as it is to write Limbaugh off as the worst kind of
hypocrite, one who would rail against, say, Darryl Strawberry's struggle
with addiction while nursing his own, to do so would be to miss a tremendous
opportunity.

After his announcement, Limbaugh checked himself in for a 30-day rehab
program. Too many other addicts in this country don't have such an
opportunity, and couldn't afford it if they did.

The nation treats drug addictions as crimes rather than health problems. An
addict in prison is still an addict. Too few treatment opportunities are
available in the criminal justice system, and too many illegal drugs find
their way behind bars. When Limbaugh comes out and back into the public eye,
he will have a chance to change the focus of the drug debate. It may take
longer than 30 days, depending on what kind of journey Limbaugh ends up
taking through the justice system.

We hope he learns from the experience, conquers his demons and helps change
the thinking of his listeners.