Drug Abuse Among Youths; Causes, Consequences, and Solutions

Column, DNEWSINFO 

Substance abuse among youths has become one of the most troubling social and public health issues in contemporary society, particularly in countries like Nigeria where the youth population constitutes a significant portion of the national demographic. This disturbing trend threatens the very foundation of the nation’s future, as the youth are expected to be the driving force behind growth, innovation, and development. Instead of embracing their roles as agents of positive change, many are increasingly falling prey to drug and substance abuse, risking not only their own well-being but also the collective progress of the nation. The rising prevalence of this issue reflects a deeper crisis within the social, economic, and psychological fabric of society—one that demands urgent and sustained attention from all stakeholders.

Substance abuse refers to the unhealthy and often excessive use of mood-altering substances such as alcohol, tobacco, prescription medications, and illicit drugs. Unlike regulated or medical usage, substance abuse involves misusing these substances in ways that impair the user’s health, relationships, academic or professional performance, and general societal functioning. Youths are particularly vulnerable due to the stage of development they are in—marked by experimentation, peer bonding, identity exploration, and a desire for independence. They are often introduced to substances like alcohol, marijuana, tobacco, codeine, tramadol, and even inhalants like glue and kerosene through social interactions, ignorance, or as a response to stressors they cannot properly manage.

Peer pressure remains a powerful driver of youth substance abuse. A desire to feel accepted or not be seen as different can push even the most well-behaved young individual into harmful habits. The fear of social rejection or the need to prove oneself can override personal values and lead to risky experimentation. Beyond peer dynamics, family background also plays a crucial role. Young people raised in homes where substance abuse is normalized or where there is a lack of parental supervision are more likely to imitate such behavior. Dysfunctional family settings, marked by abuse, neglect, or absence of emotional support, leave youths emotionally vulnerable, often driving them to seek solace in substances.

Moreover, emotional and psychological distress is another significant cause. Depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and unresolved grief can push youths to use substances as a form of escape or self-medication. Unfortunately, while these substances may offer momentary relief, they typically lead to dependence and worsening mental health over time. Similarly, idleness due to unemployment or lack of educational opportunities creates a fertile ground for substance use. An unengaged mind can become a playground for negative habits, especially in environments where there is little or no positive reinforcement.

Modern media and popular culture have also contributed to this growing menace. Social media platforms, music videos, and films often portray substance use as fashionable or a sign of success, giving the wrong impression to impressionable young minds. This misleading representation makes drug use appear harmless or even admirable. To make matters worse, the accessibility of drugs has made the situation even more dangerous. In many urban and rural communities, young people can easily buy harmful substances over the counter or from black-market vendors, further lowering the barriers to abuse.

The consequences of substance abuse among youths are devastating and multidimensional. From a health perspective, it can lead to serious medical complications such as liver failure, lung disease, kidney damage, cardiovascular issues, and irreversible neurological problems. Youths who abuse drugs are also at higher risk of engaging in unprotected sex, leading to sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies. On a psychological level, prolonged substance abuse can lead to a host of mental health issues, including paranoia, hallucinations, depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. These conditions not only impair the individual’s well-being but also strain family relationships and social interactions.

Academically and professionally, drug abuse often spells doom. Students who engage in drug use frequently experience a drop in academic performance, absenteeism, poor concentration, and eventual dropout. This not only ruins their educational future but also shrinks their employment prospects, pushing many into a cycle of poverty and criminal activity. Socially, the addicted youth becomes isolated, mistrusted, and often ends up in conflict with the law. Cases of theft, assault, vandalism, and drug trafficking are common among youths who have descended into addiction, resulting in criminal records that follow them for life.

The implications of substance abuse on national development are equally dire. When a significant portion of a country’s youth population is incapacitated by addiction, the nation loses valuable human capital. The productivity and innovation required for growth are stunted, the crime rate escalates, and healthcare systems become overwhelmed with drug-related cases. A country cannot expect progress when its young minds are clouded with addiction, hopelessness, and lost potential. Thus, addressing substance abuse is not merely a health issue—it is a national emergency.

Tackling this crisis requires a holistic and multi-sectoral approach. Families must be at the forefront of prevention. Parents should nurture open communication with their children, educate them on the dangers of substance use, and lead by example through responsible behavior. Schools should integrate drug education into their curriculum and equip teachers to identify and support at-risk students. Seminars, mentorship programs, and testimonials from recovered addicts can serve as powerful deterrents and sources of hope.

Government intervention is crucial. Stricter laws must be enforced to curb drug trafficking and unauthorized sales, while also ensuring that rehabilitation centers are well-funded, accessible, and equipped with qualified personnel. Youths must be empowered economically through job creation, entrepreneurship training, and vocational programs to reduce idleness and foster purpose. Community organizations, faith-based groups, and NGOs must also play an active role by organizing outreach campaigns, offering free counseling services, and providing platforms for youth engagement and rehabilitation.

The media must be reoriented as a tool for change rather than a promoter of dangerous lifestyles. Instead of glorifying substance use, media platforms should be used to share real stories of addiction and recovery, educate the public, and promote positive youth development. Most importantly, youths themselves must be encouraged to take responsibility for their choices, build self-worth, and align with mentors, youth clubs, and peer support groups that promote healthy living and personal growth.

Substance abuse among youths is a formidable challenge that threatens the very core of society, but it is not insurmountable. With collective effort, strategic education, policy enforcement, and sincere commitment from all sectors, it is possible to reverse the trend and save our youths from the dark grip of addiction. Every young person deserves a chance to live a life full of purpose, health, and dignity. As a society, we must rise to the occasion—not with blame or condemnation, but with compassion, intervention, and relentless hope for a better tomorrow.

Edited and Compiled by Odeyale Mercy | June 16, 2025