DRUG ABUSE AMONG THE YOUTH
Drug abuse is the misuse or over-dependence on drugs or substances. Abuse of drug is more common among youths all over the world. Some of the narcotics and psychotropic drugs include : cannabis, cocaine, heroine, codeine, tramadol and so on. Those who abuse these drugs depend on them and cannot function optimally except they take them.
Drug abuse can be caused by a number of mental illnesses such as depression and bipolar disorders. These disorders may cause people to resort to drugs to manage the symptoms. When these drugs are used, there is a momentary escape from their problems until a relapse occurs.
Peer influence is also one of the leading causes of drug abuse among youths. When a young person sees his or her peers taking something and then feeling better afterwards, such youth will likely engage in such. It is easier for youths to be influenced by friends because they want to experiment and impress until it becomes an addiction they are unable to break free from.
Another cause of drug abuse is unstable family background. A young person who lacks family attention are more likely to abuse drugs. When there is no parent-child relationship, substance abuse is most likely inevitable and such children usually find solace in drug misuse. Also, children whose parents abuse drugs are likely to follow suit as they won't see it as wrong.
In order for drug abuse to be curbed to its barest minimum, youths have to be educated on the negative ettects of abusing drugs especially for those who haven't engaged in it already. The country's drug laws should be reviewed in earnest so as to create suitable penalties for offenders. This should be put in place after proper enlightenment of citizens. Doing this will curb drug abuse among the youths to a large percentage.
Ayo Kingsley.