Have you ever wondered if people should be punished for making unhealthy choices? It's a question that comes up a lot in discussions about public health.
Some might think that punishing people for their actions will make them healthier, but in reality, it's not that simple.
While it might seem that holding people accountable for their actions could lead to better health outcomes, this approach is widely regarded as neither effective nor ethical.
Instead, public health strategies emphasize support, education, and addressing the root cause of unhealthy behaviour.
This message is particularly relevant as we observe 'Support Don't Punish Day' today (June 26), a global advocacy campaign calling for drug policies based on health and human rights.
Punitive measures such as imprisonment and compulsory detention centres can infringe on individuals' rights, leading to negative outcomes rather than the desired positive change.
This is particularly relevant when considering laws such as Section 15(1) of the Dangerous Drugs Act, which criminalizes personal drug use.
Instead of punitive approaches, the focus should be centred on providing support and treatment for individuals struggling with drug use.
Behavioral science has shown that positive reinforcement and supportive interventions are more successful in promoting and sustaining healthy behaviour compared with punitive actions such as imprisonment.
Punitive measures, on the other hand, can lead to resistance and further entrench unhealthy habits.
We fail to notice that many health behaviours, particularly drug use, are influenced by factors beyond an individual's control, such as genetics, socio-economic status, education, and environmental conditions.
Ignoring these underlying determinants without addressing them may overlook the complex interplay of factors contributing to health outcomes and can be seen as unfair.
Social determinants such as poverty, lack of access to education, inadequate healthcare, and unhealthy living environments shape our decisions when it comes to health.
Addressing the root cause is far more effective than imposing penalties. Public health initiatives that focus on improving the conditions in which people live, learn, work, and play can lead to more sustainable health improvements.
Punitive measures can lead to stigmatization and discrimination, exacerbating the problems faced by those already marginalized. This stigmatization can create barriers to seeking help and accessing health services, further deteriorating individuals' health.
Instead of punishment, a compassionate, supportive, and holistic approach that addresses the broader context of individuals' lives is more likely to lead to positive health outcomes.
Improved drug policies should be about empowering people, providing the necessary resources, and creating environments that support healthy living.
By focusing on education, access, and support, we can promote lasting health improvements without resorting to punitive measures.
The 'Support Don't Punish Day' serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of these principles in our approach to public health and drug policy.
* The writer is a senior lecturer in public health at Universiti Malaya, specialising in social and behavioural science. Her research focuses on HIV-related services for people who use drugs