Methamphetamine Drug Abuse Rising Among Pakistan Youth: Report

Islamabad: A concerning report has surfaced from Pakistan which highlight that the use of narcotics drug methamphetamine, also known as ‘ice’ or ‘crystal meth’, has been in rise among youths in recent years. Youth tends to lean towards the use of ‘crystal meth’, a party drug known for enhancing energy levels, alertness, and confidence. Hence, it is increasingly popular among the youth looking for a quick high, according to ARY News.
Notably, methamphetamine is a highly addictive psychostimulant drug that exhibits powerful euphoric effects similar to those of cocaine and has life-threatening consequences
The ease of access to ‘ice’, as well as its relatively low cost compared to other drugs, has contributed to its popularity among young Pakistanis, the report said.
‘Ice’ users may encounter physical health concerns like tooth decay, loss of weight, blisters on the skin, and a higher chance of heart attack or stroke. Additionally, the drug may have serious negative consequences for mental health, including psychosis, hallucinations, aggressiveness, and paranoia, the report said.
The current number of Pakistanis addicted to ‘meth’ is unknown, as the most recent comprehensive report on drug use in Pakistan was published by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime in 2013. According to that report, approximately 6 per cent of the population, equivalent to around 7 million individuals, were struggling with drug addiction. Notably, the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had the highest rate of drug use, with nearly 11% of its population using illicit substances, ARY News reported.
Methamphetamine use in Pakistan has far-reaching consequences beyond individual users. The drug trade has led to a surge in criminal activity, exacerbating community insecurity. Moreover, families of those struggling with addiction often face financial hardship and emotional distress, while the healthcare system is strained by the growing need for addiction treatment and support services, the report said.
According to the statement, the surging demand for drug addiction therapies and essential support services is putting a lot of pressure on our healthcare system. It’s also causing emotional heartache and financial burdens for families who have members battling with addiction.