by: Madeeha Mattoo
The beautiful valley of Kashmir, often called paradise on Earth, has been marred by different kinds of issues; the widespread use of drugs. This issue, once largely ignored, has now emerged as a significant concern, not only due to its social and economic implications but also because of its profound psychological impact on the people of Kashmir.
Kashmir, known for its serene beauty and warm hospitality, is sadly grappling with a rising tide of drug abuse. According to reports, the number of drug addicts in the valley has been steadily increasing, especially among the youth. Unemployment, violence, and the accessibility of drugs are some of the factors that have led to this concerning development. In the valley, cannabis also referred to as “charas,” is commonly grown and used. Smuggled heroin from nearby nations has also ended up in the hands of a lot of addicts.
Approximately two-thirds of patients started abusing drugs between the ages of 11 and 20, according to a study conducted by the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS) in Srinagar. The most often abused drugs include alcohol, benzodiazepines, cannabis, nicotine, and prescription opioids. Additionally, the study discovered that poly-substance usage is common, with many users ingesting several drug kinds at once.
Opioid use, particularly heroin, has increased in the area; heroin is used daily by an estimated 89% of drug addicts, frequently via injection. Due to needle sharing, this tendency has led to serious health dangers, such as HIV/AIDS, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
In Kashmir, drug addiction has also contributed to the disintegration of families and the social fabric. Addiction has broken up a lot of families, which has raised the incidence of homelessness, domestic abuse, and divorce. The issues that addicts and their families confront are made worse by societal shame and discrimination.
The psychological impact of drug abuse on individuals and families in Kashmir is profound. Addiction not only affects the physical health of individuals but also has far-reaching consequences on their mental well-being. Anxiety, sadness, and psychosis are common among addicts, which can create a vicious cycle of drug abuse and mental health issues.
The youth of Kashmir, in particular, are vulnerable to the lure of drugs. Many young people, disillusioned by the lack of opportunities, turn to drugs as a means of escape. This not only jeopardizes their future but also undermines the social and economic development of the region.
Over 13,000 people in Jammu and Kashmir sought assistance from drug de-addiction institutions in 2022-23, according to data, highlighting the problem’s broad prevalence. Peer pressure, the ease of access to drugs, and ignorance of the risks associated with substance usage have all been noted as significant contributing factors.
The Jammu and Kashmir administration has taken a number of actions to combat the problem of drug misuse in the valley. To assist addicts in their recovery and reintegration into society, numerous rehabilitation facilities and de-addiction programs have been established. Nonetheless, more work is required to properly address this complicated problem.
Drug abuse in Kashmir is a serious psychological issue that needs immediate care, not only a social or economic one. It is imperative to deal with the underlying causes of addiction and give individuals who are impacted enough resources and support. The people of Kashmir can only expect to get through this catastrophe and reclaim their paradise on Earth by working together.
The author can be mailed at madihamattoo123@gmail.com
