International day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking celebrated on June 26th of each year was initiated in 1987 following the resolution of a special session on drugs by the United Nation’s general assembly as an expression of it’s determination to strengthen action and cooperation to achieve the goal of an international society free of drug abuse. The war against drug abuse and illicit trafficking is international.
The theme for 2018 is “Listen first – listening to children and youths is the first step to help them grow healthy and safe”. It is an initiative to increase support for prevention of drug use that is based on science and is thus an effective investment in the well-being of children and youth, their families and communities.
It has become a norm especially for some young people worldwide to consume drugs as if it is part of their dietary plan. This same pressure to use drugs is also on the rise among older individuals. Drug abuse has become a huge global problem especially in Nigeria and there is need to curb this unhealthy lifestyle through the development of positive life changing initiatives.
The three major aspects that have been afflicted with the consequences of drug abuse are the family, the economy and the community. Whether it is a parent or a child who is involved in substance abuse, the resultant effect leads to deteriorating health conditions. More also, the family relationship is jeopardized and other family members who are not exposed to these mind altering substances may follow the path. The economy of the society is not left out. Drug abusers may perform slower at work and at times may have to stay off duty due to inappropriate coordination thus affecting the overall output of the establishment . Money spent on rehabilitation centres can also be put to better use in other sectors.
There is a direct relationship between crime, violence and drug abuse. Numerous cases of venereal diseases have been linked to drug abuse. Therefore, it is worth mentioning that it is a collective business of all and sundry to join in the fight against substance abuse by the use of preventive approaches which should include a designed intention and skills that will help individuals live healthy as well as creating environment that support health lifestyle.
Research suggests that early-to-late adolescence is a critical risk period for the initiation of substance use. By breaking the chain of social, neurobiological and psychological factors that can increase susceptibility to drug use disorders, we can help young people to grow up healthy and safe.
Public officials, the media, parents, guardians, teachers as well as individuals are encouraged to use the vast resources available to them to create awareness on the extreme dangers of drug use and trade on individuals, communities and the world at large.
Public education, social marketing and media advocacy are beneficial tools said to be used to influence community norms, increase public awareness and attract support for a variety of preventive issues.
Government and public officials should take seriously enforcement and policies on proportionate national sentencing and practices for drug-related offences as a necessary means to enhance the war against drug abuse. A strong focus on prevention and treatment is also necessary.
Let’s develop our lives, our communities, our identities without drugs.
LISTEN FIRST!
Credits :
Information and image from United Nations culled from http://www.un.org/en/events/drugabuseday/