Drug abuse is still a serious problem in most parts of the world. It is a tragedy that we are yet to get rid of. Millions of youth fall victim to the habit of taking drugs. These addicted people are on a steady path towards untimely destruction and death. It is a socio-economic and cultural evil that affects the victims, as well as the nation and society. It is estimated that near about six million people in Bangladesh are drug addicted and about 80 per cent of the drug addicts are adolescents and young men of 15 to 30 years of age.
Drug traffickers usually target younger individuals. They consume drugs to experience something new, escape daily stressors, or even due to peer pressure. Some drugs alter one's state of mind and trigger visual hallucinations. They also change brain chemistry if taken regularly, creating dependence. Excessive drug consumption affects individuals' mental and physical health. Addicts often lose all their money due to their high dependence on drugs. Their families also suffer from trauma and misery. Drug addicts reuse syringes to inject substances and contract fatal diseases like AIDS.
To tackle drug abuse, educational institutions should carry out awareness campaigns discouraging drug consumption among students and strictly monitor students' activities within campuses. Parents should be vigilant and talk to their children if they suspect any behavioural changes. Long-term rehabilitation programmes should be administered to prevent people from relapsing. Everyone including the authorities concerned should work collectively to put an end to this menace and protect our younger generations.
Abu Elias Linkon,
Banasree, Dhaka,
lightening_sparkle@yahoo.com