Daemon Wolfe’s alcohol addiction became so desperate he ended up slashing his wrists, just in a bid to be admitted to hospital.

He had asked for treatment but there was no bed. And then there was nowhere else to go.

Our hospitals should not have to be used as rehab facilities for addicts but all too often, that is where they end up.

Drug and alcohol counsellors have confirmed that for heavy abusers in Albury-Wodonga and its surrounds, there is “zero” treatment available.

The closest rehab facilities at Benalla and Wagga already have long waiting lists. And the rise in the use of the drug ice is further pushing out those lists.

It’s a fact a lot of drug and alcohol addicts never seek help but it is unacceptable for those that do, there is no help.

The benefits of treating those who are prepared to do something about their addiction would be felt throughout the community.

Time after time in court, we hear the motivation for burglaries and other offences was a drug addiction, and the violence associated with alcohol abuse are known too well.

People who are chronically addicted to substances and asking for help simply can’t do it on their own.