DRUG ABUSE AMONGST YOUNG PEOPLE

By Hassana Ado U17MM1084

Drug abuse refers to the use of illegal drugs or the misuse of legal drugs for non-medical purposes. Drug abuse can lead to physical and mental health problems, including addiction, and can also have negative social and economic consequences. There are many reasons why people abuse drugs, including peer pressure, stress, and mental health issues. Some people also become addicted to drugs after using them for legitimate medical purposes. Whatever the cause, drug abuse is a serious problem that can have lasting effects on individuals and their families.

One of the most important aspects of drug abuse is its impact on physical and mental health. The use of illegal drugs like cocaine and heroin can lead to a variety of health problems, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory problems, and HIV/AIDS. Even legal drugs, when used for non-medical purposes, can have serious side effects. For example, the misuse of prescription painkillers can lead to addiction and overdose. In addition to physical health problems, drug abuse can also lead to mental health issues like depression and anxiety.

Drug abuse is a significant issue for young people in particular. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse In Nigeria, around 19% of high school students have used an illicit drug in the past year. Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug among youth, but there has also been a rise in the use of opioids and prescription drugs. The reasons for drug abuse among young people are complex and may include factors like peer pressure, boredom, and the desire to escape from problems. Regardless of the reasons, drug abuse can have a major impact on young people’s lives, affecting their academic performance, relationships, and overall well-being.

To address drug abuse among young people, it is important to take a multi-pronged approach that includes prevention, treatment, and policy change. Prevention efforts should focus on educating young people about the dangers of drug abuse and providing them with the skills they need to resist peer pressure and make healthy choices. Treatment for those who are already abusing drugs should be tailored to meet their individual needs and may include counseling, medication, and other interventions. Policy changes can also make a difference, such as increasing access to mental health services and regulating the marketing of prescription drugs.

Also, There are specific programs that have been shown to be effective in reducing drug abuse among young people. The Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program is one such program that has been shown to be effective in reducing drug use and improving decision-making skills among youth. Another program that has been shown to be effective is the LifeSkills Training program, which focuses on teaching students how to resist peer pressure and make responsible decisions. There are also many other effective programs, such as the Communities That Care program and the Positive Action program.

The broadcast media can be used in creating programs that educate young people on the dangers of drug abuse. These programs can be informative and engaging, using real-life stories to drive the message home.