Drug Abuse is a healthcare problem today in Nigeria.

Drug Abuse is a healthcare problem today in Nigeria. It is a problem because of the easy access to drugs and the escalating rate at which younger people are becoming afflicted by drug addiction. 10 Years ago the commonest drug used to be Marijuana, Doctors had to manage the complications of Marijuana use, which is not very addictive. Today Nigeria is a net importer of Class A drugs and these drugs are used in Nigeria. Cocaine, Heroine, Methamphetamine, Crack cocaine, and many other highly-addictive Class A drugs are available and easily accessible. Today a community clinic would probably manage between 3-6 cases of recreational drug-induced mental and medical conditions monthly, When an individual is afflicted by addiction recovery is always very slow and never guaranteed. Recovery from addiction can take between 6 months to 10 years however a huge percentage of addicts never fully recover. Watching out for signs of drug consumption is very important in preventing addiction. Discuss with a psychiatrist or a psychologist for help and most importantly keep the person close. Remember consumption of recreational drugs is a choice but drug addiction is not a choice. Addicts are patients and they require specialist care. Let’s keep our community Safe and Sane.

Dr Dosunmu Jubril

Southern shore hospital