In China, the concept of 戒毒 is deeply intertwined with national history and social values. Drug addiction is not merely seen as a personal health issue but carries a heavy social stigma and is often viewed through the lens of moral failing and societal harm. This perspective is rooted in the “Century of Humiliation” (百年国耻 bǎinián guóchǐ), which began with the Opium Wars in the mid-19th century. Widespread opium addiction, encouraged by foreign powers, is historically remembered as a key factor that weakened the nation. Consequently, modern China has a zero-tolerance policy towards drug trafficking and a deep-seated cultural aversion to narcotics.
戒毒 is the standard term used across all levels of formality.