Matthías Matthíasson advocates humane treatment for inmates facing opioid addiction in Iceland prisons

A department head in a prison mental health team has stated that the primary goal of maintenance treatments in prisons is not to compel inmates to stop using drugs. He emphasized that prisons house a vulnerable and marginalized group of individuals, and it is crucial to approach them with understanding and respect.

Matthías Matthíasson, who leads the team, explained that in prisons, inmates have access to maintenance treatments utilizing opioid medications to address opioid addiction. He pointed out that it is essential for prisoners to receive treatment that mitigates the harm caused by their self-obtained substances, which they are likely to continue seeking.

Matthías clarified that this approach does not imply that they are becoming “dealers of opioids.” Rather, the intention is to address the existing issues effectively and reduce potential harm.

His remarks arose during a discussion on the realities of substance use among inmates, highlighting the need for effective interventions rather than punitive measures. The conversation reflects a growing recognition of the complexities surrounding addiction and the necessity for humane treatment approaches within the prison system, particularly regarding opioid dependency.