Drug addiction is a worldwide problem, as narcotics become more available and policing becomes more challenging.
Over the years, the Chinese government has set up more clinics and jails to help people out of drug addiction. Although there may be good substance-abuse treatment programs inside such facilities, help is often out of reach once patients leave these walls.
Our initial goal to film this story was to focus on breaking the walls of reentry. And we found that it is increasingly clear that incarceration may not be the only answer. Throughout the filming, we saw struggles and triumphs of drug addicts as they attempt to establish themselves in society and families.
Validation helps bring down walls
Ye Xiong was incarcerated as a result of her addiction. Today, she works as a campaigner at the Shanghai Narcotics Control, allowing her to help others from her own experience. She has become an invaluable link between the inside and outside.
Ye Xiong talks on the program "At the Forefront of Fighting Addiction" on Shanghai Oriental Radio hosted by Meng Xiao. /CGTN Photo
"Respect is so important. When I looked down on myself, someone still spoke to me with her heart, then I had to live like a human," said Ye.
We also went to a compulsory rehabilitation center in Shandong. According to Supervisor Lyu Xin, the center is run in accordance with the provisions of the laws for the treatment of drug abusers.
Xiao Jun (pseudonym) is taking a psychological consultation at the Drug Rehabilitation and Treatment Center in Shandong. /CGTN Photo
"Our biggest challenge is helping them build up confidence and have the determination to quit," said Lyu.
Success breeds success
Ye said that in many relapses, they couldn't see hope. So now, much of what their group does is to re-shape behavior, encouraged by models and people with the same experience.
Xi Xi is one of the former drug addicts being helped by Ye. She had been incarcerated twice. But Ye's successful case has inspired her. Today, the two work together to help others with the same experience.
Xi Xi participates in a group session organized Ye Xiong. The group consists of 12 former drug addicts. /CGTN Photo
"To become a person with dignity. There's a sense of happiness and accomplishment," said Xi.
Ye also said, when you experience that kind of success, the following road can be much easier. She says after all those disastrous experiences, she really wants to shine for the rest of her life.