Akhrienuo Kire
Kohima | May 1
Marijuana is quickly becoming a trend among Naga youth today. There are about 50 to 70 such cases registered at the Detox Centre at Naga Hospital Kohima who fall under the age group of 15-30 years.
Cannabis, also known as ‘Marijuana’, ‘ganja,’ and numerous other names, is a psychoactive drug and medicine containing the chemical THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol). When consumed there can be alteration in conscious perception, heightened mood and relaxation. It also produces laughter, alters perception of time, and causes delusion.
When questioned, there seem to be multiple reasons for smoking marijuana. Peer pressure is one of the main reasons for teenagers.
“It is a good alternative for other intoxicating substance because it is cheap and easy to procure. It is a good inspirational drug for creative people,” says Charles (name changed) from Kohima who alternately consumed marijuana.
“I use marijuana to relax, to think, to enjoy and keep my mind peaceful and calm. Also people who smoke weed are never violent,” shares William (name changed) from Kohima who daily consumes marijuana.
“I use marijuana for enjoyment and fun and to get the kick of it and procure it from friends,” says Rachael (name changed) who occasionally consumes marijuana. Sylvia (name changed) consumes the substance to “unwind stress and reduce depression.”
Marijuana, if abused for long term, can cause mental illness, depression and risk of addiction. Most consumers are aware of the long term effects of marijuana.
Dr. Viketoulie Pienyü, a Psycho Therapist and Senior Medical Officer at Nagaland State Mental Health Institute Kohima, advices youngsters to take up healthy passions such as reading, music or carpentry to keep them meaningfully engaged and not to keep the mind idle.
He informs that at the initial stages, parents are not aware of their children’s indulgence but they slowly become aware of alteration in their behaviour, alongside problems of mental illnesses such as depression or anxiety, which is when parents seek for detox treatment for them.
“Ganja is addictive; it can destroy your personality and ruin your career. In the end it can cause permanent or long term illness. So it is not wise to indulge in this kind of bad habits. As a youngster, spend your time in more healthy recreational activities and associate people who do not take intoxicating substance and exert positive influence in your life,” shares Dr. Pienyü.
(The writer is currently an intern with The Morung Express)
