Well, I agree, a lot about modern society contributes to the kind of mental health problems that can lead to substance abuse.

But for better or worse, overall health outcomes are better than at any time in history.

So if you're thinking that people being idle, bored, robbed of any agency, and unfulfilled is a root cause of drug abuse, I agree.

But that boils down to being at the top of the needs hierarchy, and moving down has a set of bigger problems with it.

So as long as we're here, treating opioid use as a disease or chronic condition, instead of as some kind of "criminal" hedonistic behavior we should be punished for, goes a long way to reduce any harm it causes.