Substance Abuse Among Students in Undivided South Kanara

Overview of Substance Abuse

Undivided South Kanara, a region renowned for its educational institutions, attracts students from across India and abroad. While this vibrant academic environment fosters growth, it also brings challenges, including substance abuse among students. I drew on my experience as a psychiatrist treating students, and my work on counselling teams and advisory boards, to write this article on the drug menace.

Commonly Abused Substances

Apart from alcohol and tobacco, several other substances are frequently abused among students in South Kanara:

Cannabis (Marijuana, Hashish, Weed, Ganja)

Often perceived as a “harmless” drug, cannabis is widely consumed among students. Chronic use can lead to cognitive impairment, decreased motivation, paranoia, and increased risk of psychosis. This is the most popular drug here.

Amphetamines (MD, Ecstasy, MDMA, Speed, Crystal Meth)

These stimulant drugs are frequently used in party settings for their energy-enhancing and euphoric effects. Regular use can result in severe anxiety and paranoia, aggression, and cardiovascular complications. This is being marketed as a performance enhancer during exams, as it helps keep students awake. But many become regular users.

Opioids (Heroin, Brown Sugar, Prescription Painkillers)

Opioid addiction is particularly dangerous due to its high potential for dependence and severe withdrawal symptoms. Many students start with prescription opioids and later transition to heroin or synthetic opioids, increasing the risk of overdose. This is popular among medical students, doctors, pharmacists, and nurses.

MDMA (Ecstasy, Molly)

Popular in rave parties, MDMA leads to heightened emotions and sensory perception. Long-term use can result in serotonin depletion, depression, memory loss, and emotional instability. This is the latest addition to this list. Again, popular among students in medical and allied medical fields.

Benzodiazepines (Alprax, Ativan, Valium)

These prescription drugs, often used to treat anxiety and insomnia, are increasingly misused by students. Benzodiazepines are easily accessible through prescriptions or from peers. Students often use them to cope with academic stress, anxiety, or to improve sleep. However, these drugs carry significant risks:

• High potential for addiction and dependence
• Cognitive impairment affecting academic performance
• Increased risk of accidents due to drowsiness and impaired coordination
• Severe withdrawal symptoms occur when stopping use
• Potential for overdose, especially when combined with alcohol or opioids

The misuse of benzodiazepines is particularly concerning, as studies show that up to 23% of users may become addicted within just three months of use.

Factors Contributing to Drug Abuse

Several factors contribute to the prevalence of substance abuse in educational settings:

1. Stress Relief: Academic pressure, parental expectations, and career uncertainties push students towards substance use as a coping mechanism.
2. Peer Pressure: The desire to “fit in” with certain social groups often leads students to experiment with drugs.
3. Perceived “Cool” Factor: Many students view drug use as a symbol of modernity and rebellion, influenced by pop culture and social media.
4. Misconceptions About Psychedelic Drugs: Substances like magic mushrooms, LSD, and DMT are often glamorised as “mind-opening” drugs that enhance creativity. However, they can cause severe psychological disturbances.

Consequences of Drug Abuse

The impact of substance abuse on students can be severe and far-reaching:

Academic Decline

Regular drug users often struggle academically, leading to poor performance and dropouts.

Mental Health Issues

Anxiety, depression, hallucinations, and paranoia are common among substance users.

Increased Risk of Suicide

Many cases of self-harm and suicide in student populations have links to drug abuse.

Physical Health Risks

Overdose, accidents, and violent encounters can significantly shorten life expectancy.

Broader Societal Impacts:

Drug abuse among students often leads to a cascade of negative societal consequences –

• Criminal Activities: Addiction can drive students to engage in theft, burglary, or drug peddling to finance their habit. This not only jeopardises their future but also increases crime rates in the community.
• Accidents and Public Safety: Substance abuse significantly increases the risk of vehicular accidents, potentially harming both users and innocent bystanders.
• Trauma and Violence: Drug-related activities often involve violence, leading to physical and emotional trauma for users, their families, and the broader community.
• Terrorism and Organised Crime: The drug trade can fuel organised crime and, in some cases, terrorism. As depicted in the film “Udta Punjab,” which highlighted the drug crisis in Punjab, the narcotics trade can have far-reaching consequences on regional security and social stability.
• Economic Burden: The costs associated with healthcare, law enforcement, and lost productivity due to student drug abuse place a significant economic burden on society.

These broader impacts underscore the urgent need for comprehensive prevention and intervention strategies to address drug abuse among students in South Kanara.

Preventive Measures and Interventions

Addressing substance abuse requires a collaborative effort from various stakeholders:

Educational Institutions

1. Implement Strict Anti-Drug Policies: Clearly communicate rules and consequences related to substance abuse.
2. Conduct Regular Awareness Programs: Educate students about the risks of drug use through seminars and workshops.
3. Enhance Campus Security: Increase surveillance and patrolling to deter drug-related activities.
4. Provide Mental Health Support: Offer counselling services and support groups to help students cope with stress and addiction.

Parents

1.  Foster Open Communication: Encourage honest conversations about drug use and its consequences.
2. Recognise Early Warning Signs: Be vigilant about changes in behaviour and seek help if necessary.
3. Educate About Drug Risks: Inform children about the dangers of substance abuse and debunk myths.
4. Seek Timely Help: Consult professionals if there are signs of drug abuse.

Government and Law Enforcement

1. Target Drug Supply Chains: Disrupt the supply of drugs through targeted operations and strict enforcement.
2. Monitor High-Risk Areas: Increase police presence in areas known for drug activity.
3. Collaborate with Educational Institutions: Work together to create a safer environment for students.
4. Provide Rehabilitation Instead of Criminalisation: Focus on rehabilitation programs to help students recover rather than punishing them.

Treatment Approaches for Substance Abuse

Effective treatment often involves:

1. Counselling and Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Change thought patterns around drug use.
2. Detoxification and Medication: Particularly important in cases of opioid or stimulant withdrawal.
3. Family Involvement: Create a strong support system for recovery.
4. Long-term Rehabilitation: Severe cases may require extended treatment programs.

Conclusion

Substance abuse among students in undivided South Kanara and similar educational hubs requires a comprehensive approach involving educational institutions, parents, law enforcement, and mental health professionals. By combining strict regulations with compassionate rehabilitation efforts, we can help students reclaim their lives from the grip of substance abuse and create a healthier, more productive academic environment.