Sayo Àlàgbé
A free, healthy, peaceful, and corruption-free society can only exist in a country where the use of hard drugs, narcotics, and other harmful substances—leading to mental illness and depression among youths—is effectively curbed.
This assertion was made during Tiwantiwa, a live radio monitoring and enlightenment programme, sponsored by Ogbomoso First Group, aired on Ajilete FM 92.1, Gambari, near Ogbomoso.
The programme featured Mrs. Adeoye Olubukola Jumoke and Mr. Owoeye Olajide Francis, NDLEA Officers from the Ogbomoso Area Command office, the duo extensively explained the link between narcotic drug use and mental illness among Nigerian youths.
While responding to a question on the connection between narcotic use and mental disorders, Mrs. Mrs. Adeoye explained that narcotics alter brain chemistry, affecting mood, perception, and behavior. She emphasized that prolonged drug use can lead to psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, and even psychosis. “Many drugs interfere with neurotransmitters that regulate emotions, leading to emotional instability and severe mental health problems,” she added.
On why youths turn to narcotics despite knowing the risks, she identified several factors, including peer pressure, family issues, unemployment, curiosity, and social media influence. She also noted that some youths resort to drugs as a means of coping with stress, trauma, or depression, unaware that it worsens their mental health in the long run.
When asked how drug-induced mental illness manifests among youths, Mr. Owoeye listed common symptoms such as paranoia, hallucinations, extreme mood swings, aggression, social withdrawal, and suicidal thoughts. She warned that long-term drug use could lead to cognitive impairments, affecting an individual’s ability to concentrate, make decisions, or maintain relationships.
Addressing whether drug-induced mental illness can be reversed, he stated that recovery is possible with early intervention, proper medical care, counseling, and rehabilitation. However, he cautioned that chronic drug abuse could cause permanent brain damage, making full recovery difficult.
On the role of parents and guardians in preventing youth drug abuse, Mrs. Adeoye advised parents to engage in open communication with their children, educate them on the dangers of drugs, monitor their activities, and create a supportive home environment. She stressed that early detection of drug use and seeking professional help could prevent long-term damage.
Regarding government policies to combat drug abuse, she urged authorities to strengthen drug laws, increase funding for rehabilitation centers, integrate drug education into school curricula, and create job opportunities for youths to prevent idleness, which often leads to substance abuse.
Speaking on the role of communities and religious institutions in the fight against drug abuse, she encouraged them to organize awareness campaigns, support youth engagement programs, and provide mentorship opportunities. She added that religious institutions could offer counseling services and moral guidance to steer youths away from drug use.
Speaking on tackling effective rehabilitation and reintegration strategies for affected youths, Mr. Owoeye emphasized that successful rehabilitation should include medical detox, psychological counseling, skill acquisition programmes, and strong family support. He also highlighted the importance of reintegration efforts focusing on job placement, relationship rebuilding, and the development of a strong support system to prevent relapse.
The discussion underscored the urgent need for collective efforts by individuals, families, communities, and the government to combat drug abuse and safeguard the mental health of Nigerian youths.
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