Battling teen drug abuse: Addiction among students in Bengaluru big cause for concern

Sowmya Raju | NT

Bengaluru: According to a 2019 study by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurological Sciences (Nimhans), addressing drug addiction among students in Bengaluru has become a significant area of concern.

The study revealed that approximately 30% of students in Bengaluru were reported to be addicted to drugs while some cases even go unreported. The most commonly abused substances among students in Bengaluru include marijuana, alcohol, and tobacco. These substances pose severe risks to the physical and mental health of teenagers, as well as their relationships and academic performance.

The consequences of drug addiction in adolescents can be farreaching, with increased susceptibility to mental health disorders like anxiety, depression, and psychosis. Fur ther more, drug abuse negatively affects cognitive function and memory, consequently hampering academic achievements and future career prospects. To comprehensively address the issue of drug addiction among teenagers in Bengaluru, a multifaceted approach is required.

Overcoming addiction: Support and strategies

A counsellor from Nimhans said, “Quitting any kind of drug can be tough, and there is no single answer to the question "how to do it?"” Quitting tobacco or any other drug can be a challenging process, and there is no one-sizefits-all answer.

Seeking professional help from de-addiction specialists, such as psychiatrists and psychotherapists, can provide effective methods like patches, gums, medications, and motivation enhancement therapy. It's important to set a quitting date and share the plan with supportive individuals, and she added, “Quit today, and it's easier than quitting tomorrow. That's because, in simple terms, the brain becomes more and more used to the chemicals, making it difficult to quit every time you have one.

Quitting can be easier with the support of others.” Understand the potential challenges, such as social pressure and withdrawal symptoms, and be kind to yourself in case of a lapse. Combining different strategies and staying open-minded can increase your chances of success. Focus on self-care and stress management techniques to support your journey. With patience, perseverance, and self-compassion, you can achieve a drug-free life.