Addiction is a social practice soluble in cooperation

To prevent addictions and to help and treat drug users ethically and efficiently, the policies of states and institutions must collect knowledge and mobilise collective resources, social relations, and solidarity among their members. Technological protocols, pharmacological or otherwise, only have a bearing on the relationship of mutual aid and concern if they facilitate the association of knowledge between professionals and users. Addictology should contribute to the predominance of new social bonds based on cooperation, equality, empowerment, social inclusion, experiential sharing, and co-education. It is necessary to unite the players, to support innovative experiences, and to consolidate this dynamic through a health policy that promotes involvement and cooperation with users at all levels in the educational, clinical, and institutional fields.