Despite efforts by the government through its agencies like the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to ensure a drug abuse free society that can give the citizens a sense of belonging, many people engage into the business of taking drugs without proper prescription by a physician.
The prevalence of drug abuse can be seen in the society, especially among our teeming youths. The vulnerability of the youths will amount to nuisance, thereby causing the society to suffer a great loss in the future. The prevalence of drug abuse can be seen in the communities, through increase of thugs, touts and mentally deranged especially in psychiatric hospitals as a result un-prescribed taking of hard drugs through self-medication and improper usage of drugs.
These anti-social behaviours, crimes and other social vices are behind the increasing rate in activities that cause the society great harm, destruction, mental disorder and loss of lives and properties, including academic difficulties, health related problems, poor peer relationships, and involvement with the juvenile justice system.
There are grave consequences for family members, community, and the entire society to bear. Injuries due to accidents such as physical disabilities and diseases are effects of possible overdoses and drug abuse. These fall among the health related consequences of teenage substance abuse.
Disproportionate numbers of youth involved with alcohol and other illicit drugs face increased risk of death through suicide, homicide, accident, and illness. Investigations reveal that increase of illegal drug use or non-medical approval of legal drugs among teenagers is greater than among any of the older age groups. Mental health problems such as depression, developmental lags, apathy, withdrawal, and other psycho-social dysfunctions are linked to substance abusing youth who are at higher risk than non-users.
Depression, conflict problems, personality disorders, suicidal thoughts, attempted suicide, and marijuana use are seen to interfere with short-term memory learning and psychomotor skills. Motivation and psychosexual, emotional development may also be influenced. It has been observed that drug users often disengage from schools and communal activities, depriving their peers and communities of the positive contributions they might make. Drug abuse may result in family crisis and jeopardize many aspects of a family siblings and parents are affected by its consequences socially and economically. This ranges from financial losses to distress suffered.
Youths are advised on making connections with their parents and other good friends as they grow up. Having people you can rely on, people you can talk to about life, life’s challenges and decisions about drug abuse is very important. The benefit from someone else’s life experience can help put things in perspective and can be invaluable. Learn how to enjoy life and the people in your life, without adding substance abuse.
Get out and get active in school and community activities such as music, sports, arts or a part time job. Giving back as a volunteer is a great way to gain perspective on life.
Mustapha Goni Adam,
300 level, student of Mass Communication Department,
University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri
