The increasing rate of drug abuse among youths has continued to raise concern among parents, teachers, health professionals and other members of the public, as more young people are reportedly becoming involved in the use of substances that can negatively affect their health, education and future.
A visit to some areas where youths gather revealed that some young people are being influenced by friends and social groups to experiment with drugs.
One of the youths interviewed by our reporters, who preferred not to give his name, said peer pressure contributed to his involvement.
“Some of my friends introduced me to it. At first, I was only trying it because I wanted to know how it felt. Later, I started taking it more often,” he said.
Another youth explained that some young people use drugs because they want to forget their problems or escape from pressure.
“Some youths are going through financial problems, family problems and stress. They feel that taking drugs will make them forget their worries, even though it only makes things worse,” she said.
A third youth, who also requested anonymity, blamed curiosity and the desire to belong to a particular group.
“Sometimes, you don’t want your friends to see you as different. When everyone is doing something, you may feel pressured to do it too,” he said.
However, a medical expert, Dr. Austin Okoro, a medical practitioner, warned that drug abuse can have serious effects on both the body and the mind. According to the doctor, the behaviour of a person after taking an abused substance depends on the type and quantity of the drug consumed.
“A person who has taken an intoxicating or psychoactive substance may become unusually excited, aggressive, confused, drowsy or withdrawn. Some may talk excessively, behave irrationally or lose control of their actions. Others may experience poor judgment and impaired coordination,” the medical expert explained.
The doctor further noted that continued drug abuse can damage important organs of the body.
“Drug abuse can affect the brain and nervous system and may also have harmful effects on the heart, liver and other organs. It can lead to dependence or addiction, poor concentration, mental and behavioural problems and, in severe cases, overdose and death,” the expert said.
The medical practitioner also advised parents to pay close attention to changes in their children’s behaviour.
“Parents should not wait until a child becomes addicted before seeking help. They should communicate openly with their children, know the kind of friends they keep and watch for sudden changes in behaviour, academic performance, sleeping patterns and social activities,” the doctor advised.
The expert urged parents to avoid responding to drug use only with punishment, adding that young people who are already struggling with substance use need appropriate medical and psychological support. He also advised the youths to resist peer pressure and seek help when faced with emotional, financial or family challenges.
“Young people should understand that taking drugs is not a solution to their problems. If you are struggling with addiction, speak to a trusted parent, teacher, counsellor or health professional and seek proper treatment,” the medical expert said.
The expert further called on schools, parents, religious organisations, government agencies and communities to intensify drug-abuse awareness programmes for young people.
As concerns over drug abuse continue to grow, stakeholders say prevention, early intervention, proper counselling and access to treatment remain important in protecting young people and securing a healthier future for the next generation.
