The alarming rise of drug abuse among university students has become a pressing concern that cannot be ignored. It is crucial for universities to take an immediate action to address this critical issue and reduce addictions.
Drug abuse can stem from various causes, including peer pressure, stress and academic pressure, mental health issues, freedom and independence, partying culture of universities, curiosity, and mental health issues such as anxiety.
Alcohol, bhang, cocaine, tobacco and e-cigarettes are among the commonly abused drugs. Drug abuse effects include addiction, health issues, academic decline which generally result in poor academic performance, behavioural changes, and risks to accidents.
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Some of the strategies to fight drug abuse includes:
- Counseling services and rehabilitation. Universities can engage students in therapy sessions with a licensed counsellor or psychologist. It can also offer mental health and counselling services which aid students to deal with stress and personal issues without turning to drugs. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is effective for addiction treatment as it helps individuals understand and change thought patterns and behaviours related to drug abuse.
- Education and awareness campaigns. Universities should educate students about the dangers of drug abuse and provide information on how to overcome it through engaging in learning programmes and through social media since most of the students interact on social media. These skills will help them transfer knowledge to their fellows.
- Peer support programmes. Some students find it easy to talk to their colleagues openly. Encouraging peer counselling and support groups where students can discuss issues openly can reduce the temptation to use drugs. Students should be advised to join support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) which provides a sense of community with others who understand their struggle and offer advice and encouragement.
- Healthy activities. Universities should promote extracurricular activities, sports and wellness programmes thus provide students with positive outlets for stress relief. The victims can replace the time once used on drug with hobbies and interests. This reduces the time of thinking about drugs and therefore leads to personal development.
- Addressing the underlying issues. High percentage of people use drugs as a way to cope with mental health conditions such as anxiety, trauma or depression, financial stress, heartbreaks or losing loved ones. Addressing this through therapy, medication and if necessary provision of basic needs, thus creating a supportive environment for recovery from drug abuse.
- Developing coping skills. Addicted students can learn healthier ways to cope with stress such as exercise and staying away from environment, people and activities that encourage drug abuse. Building healthy routines help reduce idleness and boredoms, which often lead to cravings.
Reducing drug abuse is a shared responsibility. Maintaining open communication between students, parents and faculty members can help in identifying early signs of drug abuse. Implementing these measures comprehensively can help reduce the severity of drug abuse.
By Faith Oloo
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