Drug addiction in Bangladesh today has reached an alarming level. Usually, the term ‘Drug’ refers to medicine. But as we say ‘Drug Addiction’, the term ‘Drug’ means some illegal substance that is harmful in all respects. So, drug addiction means a condition where a person cannot stop using some drug in a manner that is different from the prescribed pattern. When drugs are used without any medical need and the user becomes severely dependent on them, it creates a situation called drug addiction.
Due to our poor economic condition, many of our youths do not find any work. Many young people are tired of the harsh competition in everyday life. As a result, they are getting frustrated and turning to drugs as an escape channel. An addict who develops tolerance requires more of the drug to transport him to the world of fantasies. Drug addiction isn’t about just heroin, cocaine, or other illegal drugs. You can get addicted to alcohol, nicotine, and other legal substances.
Physical dangers to the user include:
- Developing broadmindedness to the drug.
- Developing emotional and substantial dependence.
- Removal symptoms when trying to cut back or quit.
- Other physical problems, like uneven heart rate, high blood pressure, lung spoil, and seizures.
The use of illegal drugs and crime go hand in hand. The addicts do anything to obtain drugs. Crimes most frequently committed by drug users are pickpocketing, theft, hijacking, robbery, extortion, prostitution, public nuisance, and drug-peddling. The most disturbing fact is that the university campuses, college premises and school grounds nourish this evil more and more. In family and personal level, violence, family disruption, and health problems are consequences of drug addiction. Drugs may cause long term damage to the brain, heart, and lungs. The most devastating problem associated with the drug is the spread of HIV. On the other hand, initially, the addicts feel drowsy and lose appetite. But with days going on, they become dependent on drugs. They cannot but increase the dose and frequency of taking drugs. This ultimately leads to the addict to death.
Govt. must realize the gravity of the problems of drug addiction. There’s no cure, but treatment can help you stop using drugs and stay drug-free. No doubt, the fight against drug is a multi-disciplinary task. Individuals and organizations from all concerned fields must join this. But at the same time, we must ensure proper moral education for all. We should better start it from the family. Then the steps taken for supply-demand reduction of drugs will be more effective.
