I don't know what the solution is, but I know what it isn't. Addiction and recreational use of pain killers is certainly a serious problem, but so is management of severe chronic pain. Currently those of us who suffer from chronic pain are being told to "buck up and deal with it." We're offered "solutions" like warm baths, yoga, and massage. All of these are soothing, but when you suffer from something like diabetic nerve damage or spinal stenosis these methods are like putting a warm towel on a broken arm. It may be comforting, but you're still in serious pain. I listen to the politicians and physicians debate, and the predominant theme seems to be that anyone who needs long term severe pain management is either an addict, a weakling, or just someone trying to get high. One thing I am certain of... these people have never had serious long-term pain, or watched a loved one suffer with it. Those who have are far less likely to dismiss pain killer use as a social problem. For more information: Kratom