It seems to me that most (not all) people who are truly "addicts" are running away from a traumatic experience in their lives. Wouldn't it be more useful of everyone's time and resources to try to help them cope with their emotional distress rather than pile on more by jailing them?

As for people using drugs recreationally - if they're functioning adults then who cares? It's no different than drinking alcohol for a lot of people. If you do it in excess or irresponsibly you can die. Part of being an adult is taking a little personal responsibility.