K Nzimongo Ngullie
D.C Dimapur
Since 1998, with various themes, 26th June is observed as International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking to campaign in an effort to increase public awareness about the destructive power of drugs and society’s responsibility to care for the well being of the drug users.
This year the United nation Office for Drug and crime (UNODC) has selected “Drugs are not child’s play” as the theme of its 2006 international campaign. The latest estimates indicate that 200 million people, or 5 % of the global population age 15- 64, have consumed illicit drugs at least once in the last 12 months. But what about kids or children
Although they are seldom the object of national or international studies, children of all ages are affected by drug abuse and illicit trafficking. Street children, working and living in dire conditions are as are boys and girls whose family members are buying or selling illicit substances. These kids are exposed not only to bad examples but also to violent behavior associated to drug abuse.
In some instances, children have lost their parents to this scourge and are now cared for by uncles, aunts or grandparents. At school, the situation may not be any better. Teenagers and peers may be pressuring kids to smoke cigarettes and drink alcohol, at first, and then try other types of drugs.
There are lots of reasons why people take illegal drugs. Some take them to escape their problems while others are bored, curious or just want to feel good. People may be pressured into taking drugs to ‘fit in’ with a particular crowd or they may take drugs to rebel or to get attention. Drug users come from all kinds of backgrounds. They are male and female, young and old, rich and poor, employed and un-employed, from city and the countryside- it does not matter. Drug use can affect anyone.
The campaign underlines the need for everyone to talk about drug abuse, admit that it is a problem, and take responsibility for doing something about. The support that it is a problem, and takes responsibility for doing something about it. The support of caring and listening parents has proven to be one of the most important protective factors against drug abuse. But for the many young people around the world who do not have the advantage of a supportive home environment, we all have a special responsibility.
We also know that treatment for drug users in return helps communities, by reducing criminality and the risks of transmission of blood-borne infectious diseases, particularly HIV/AIDS, and by allowing them to benefit from the contributions of healthier, more productive and better integrated individuals and families.
The best thing we can do is prevent drug use and abuse before it happens. While that is a worthy goal, the reality is that there are those who abuse drugs, and they need help and attention. Investing in drug abuse treatment is a positive and effective way to restore dignity to the lives of drug abusers so that they become valuable members of society.
The anti-drugs campaign urges adults to protect children, parents, siblings and other family members can ensure that a Childs home is a safe environment and that children are aware of the dangers associated with drug abuse. Teachers and social workers also have a role to play by watching out for warning signs and taking measures to address any drug related problems. For example, teachers can provide kids with information on the health risks linked to drug abuse and also give them a forum to discuss the issue openly. Other individuals and organizations can and should contribute to the protection of children. The media, non- governmental organizations and government institutions are among them.
With its theme “Drugs are not child’s play”, we hope to diminish any complacent attitude and remind every one that we are responsible to heal the lives of our land.
