As Christmas and New Year approach, festivities in Assam take on a vibrant and joyous character. However, beneath the celebratory spirit lies a pressing issue that demands urgent attention – substance abuse during the festive season.
Assam, known for its rich cultural heritage and exuberant celebrations, is grappling with a troubling increase in the misuse of alcohol and drugs, as revealed by the National Survey on the Pattern and Extent of Substance Use in India (2019).
Substance Use in Assam
Assam exhibits concerning patterns of substance use. The survey highlights the following:
Alcohol: Over 35% of the population consumes alcohol, compared to the national average of 14.6%.
Opioids: Usage stands at 6.34%, significantly higher than the national average of 2.06%.
Cannabis: Consumption is at 5.67%, nearly double the national average of 2.83%.
Of particular concern is the rise in inhalant use among adolescents aged 10 to 17 years, which is higher than the national average. This points to a growing trend of early substance experimentation, exacerbated by peer pressure and easy availability.
Health Implications
Substance abuse has far-reaching consequences for public health. Assam has a rising population of individuals who inject drugs, placing them at increased risk of infectious diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C.
Unsafe injecting practices and limited harm reduction services have amplified the spread of these diseases. Globally, injection drug use accounts for nearly 10% of new HIV infections, and Assam is no exception. Hepatitis C, a silent yet devastating disease, is also becoming a major concern, leading to chronic liver conditions that are often diagnosed too late.
Festivities and Amplified Risks
The festive season often sees a surge in substance use, as social gatherings and cultural leniency create an environment ripe for experimentation. Emotional vulnerability during this time can further drive individuals toward substance use as a coping mechanism.
The easy availability of alcohol and drugs during celebrations heightens these risks, often resulting in accidents, overdoses, and long-term health consequences.
A Call to Action
As we approach this festive season, it is imperative to balance joy with responsibility. Here are some critical steps we must take to address the substance abuse crisis in Assam:
1. Awareness Campaigns: Educate communities about the risks associated with substance abuse, particularly during festive celebrations.
2. Harm Reduction Services: Expand access to needle exchange programmes, opioid substitution therapy, and overdose prevention initiatives.
3. Counselling and Rehabilitation: Strengthen support systems for individuals battling addiction, ensuring timely interventions.
4. Youth Engagement: Implement programmes targeting adolescents to prevent early substance experimentation.
5. Community Involvement: Encourage collective efforts to identify and support at-risk individuals.
Celebrate Responsibly
This festive season, let us prioritize health and safety while embracing the spirit of togetherness. Substance abuse is a growing epidemic in Assam, but with collective effort, compassion, and awareness, we can confront this challenge and protect lives.
At Arising Wellness Society, we are committed to supporting individuals and families affected by substance abuse, offering hope and recovery to those in need. Let’s work together to ensure that our celebrations are a source of joy, not harm.
May this season bring happiness, health, and prosperity to all.
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