Drug addiction is a scourge that affects millions of people worldwide, and Nigeria is no exception. In Nigeria, drug abuse, especially among the youth, is on the rise, with dire consequences affecting not only the individual but also their loved ones, communities, and society at large.
This article aims to contribute to this vital initiative by exploring the complexities of drug abuse and addiction, its far-reaching consequences, and practical strategies for overcoming this scourge.
Understanding Drug Addiction
Drug addiction is a complex issue that stems from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. While the initial decision to use drugs may be voluntary, repeated consumption can lead to long-term changes in the brain, which makes it challenging for the individual to quit. There is a constant craving for drugs despite the devastating consequences on one’s health, relationships, and overall well-being.
In the National Bureau of Statistics Drug Use in Nigeria report of 2018, “one in seven persons aged 15-64 years had used a drug (other than tobacco and alcohol) in the past year. The past year prevalence of any drug use is estimated at 14.4 per cent (range 14.0 per cent – 14.8 per cent), corresponding to 14.3 million people aged 15-64 years who had used a psychoactive substance in the past year for non-medical purposes.”
“A prevalence of 20–40% and 20.9% of drug abuse was reported among students and youths, respectively. Commonly abused drugs include cannabis, cocaine, amphetamine, heroin, diazepam, codeine, cough syrup and tramadol. Sources where abusers obtained drugs were pharmacies/patent medicine shops, open drug markets, drug hawkers, fellow drug abusers, friends, and drug pushers.”
Brief Overview of Types of Drugs
Various types of drugs are fueling the addiction pandemic. These drugs include stimulants like cocaine and amphetamines, depressants like alcohol and benzodiazepines, hallucinogens like LSD and marijuana, and lastly, opioids like heroin, codeine, and tramadol. Each of these drugs has its unique effects, risks, and consequences.
Exposure to Drugs (Availability)
There are different reasons why people get involved or exposed to drugs, including curiosity, peer pressure, coping mechanisms (stress, anxiety, trauma), self-medication (physical or mental health issues)
Exposure to drugs can occur in different settings, including homes, through prescription drugs, self-medication, and alcohol. Exposure can also occur in schools through peer pressure, experimentation, social events, and parties. People also use drugs in workplaces as a means of coping with stress. It is reported that even church members participate in this unfortunate epidemic.
Consequences of Drug Addiction
Drug addiction has severe and far-reaching consequences that affect not only the individual but also their loved ones and the community at large. Some of the most significant consequences include:
- Health problems: Drug addiction can lead to a range of health issues, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory problems, and increased risk of overdose and death.
- Mental health disorders: Mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and psychosis are often linked to drug addiction.
- Social and economic problems: Drug addiction can lead to financial difficulties, relationship breakdowns, and social isolation.
- Legal issues: Drug addiction can result in criminal charges, imprisonment, and a criminal record.
The Story of Hope
Hope was a bright and promising young woman who started experimenting with drugs out of curiosity at the University. She thought it was harmless since most of her friends were doing the same thing, but she soon found out that she was now relying more on these drugs to cope with academic pressure and stress and even her social anxiety. Hope could not sleep without taking them. She could not stop.
One day, Hope returned from class earlier than usual because she was so stressed and tired. She decided to take a combination of her “feel good” drugs to help her feel “normal”….
She woke up three days later in the hospital because she had passed out from an overdose. It was the wake-up call that she needed to turn her life around, and after several months in rehabilitation and with the support of her family, she began a journey to recovery, and she could go back to school.
Hope is one of the lucky few who made it out alive and well; so many are not so fortunate.
Breaking the Cycle of Abuse and Drug Addiction (curbing easy access)
Breaking the cycle of abuse and drug addiction requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of addiction, provides support and resources for recovery, and promotes a healthier lifestyle. Some effective strategies include:
- Education and awareness: Educating young people and adults about the dangers of drug addiction can help prevent initial use and reduce the risk of addiction.
- Improve access to treatment: Increase the availability of affordable and effective treatment options, including rehabilitation centers and detox programs.
- Engage communities: Involve local communities in prevention and intervention efforts, including outreach programs and community-based initiatives.
- Creating support groups: Joining support groups that can provide a sense of community and accountability, helping individuals stay on the path to recovery.
- Counseling and therapy: Professional counseling and treatment can help individuals to identify the underlying causes of their addiction and develop coping strategies for long-term recovery.
- Holistic approaches: Alternative therapies like yoga, meditation, and art can help individuals manage stress and anxiety, reducing the likelihood of relapse.
- Stricter laws and enforcement: Enforce laws and policies that address drug trafficking and abuse and provide protections for victims of abuse.
- Leverage technology: Utilize digital platforms and telemedicine to expand access to resources and support, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
- Collaborate with international organizations: Partner with global organizations to share best practices and secure resources to combat drug addiction and abuse in Nigeria.
Conclusion
We must educate ourselves and others about the dangers of drug abuse, curb easy access, and provide support and counseling to those affected. By understanding the root causes of addiction, we can alleviate the menace of drug abuse and addiction amongst the younger and older generations in Nigeria and promote a healthier lifestyle. We can break the cycle of abuse and drug addiction.
We must seek the cooperation and participation of community leaders, Pastors, Imams, NGOs, and others in the nation to fight this evil. We must encourage abusers to avoid the blame game and embrace the opportunities that are available for recovery!
This paper is a collaboration between:
Engr. Charles E. Orbih, USA
Dr. Irosimhe (Roysi) Orbih-Chukwu, USA
Atty Rita Onimie Orbih-Dairo, USA
