–Morshed Noman–

Drug addiction among children is an escalating concern in Bangladesh and across the globe, affecting not only teenagers and adults but younger populations as well. This trend raises deep concerns, as early exposure to addictive substances can have lifelong effects on a child’s physical, mental, and social well-being. According to a 2021 survey, approximately 3% of children aged 10-14 in Bangladesh have reported substance use, primarily nicotine and alcohol, with emerging cases of exposure to stronger drugs like methamphetamine.

Drug addiction is a chronic and often relapsing condition characterised by compulsive drug-seeking and use despite adverse consequences. In Bangladesh, estimates from 2022 suggest that 60% of individuals suffering from substance abuse disorders began using drugs in their teenage years, with initiation sometimes occurring even earlier. Various socio-economic and environmental factors, as well as increasing drug availability in communities, contribute to this disturbing trend.

Children can become addicted to a wide range of substances, each having unique impacts on the mind and body. The primary forms of addiction among children include nicotine, alcohol, inhalants, prescription drugs, cannabis, and hard drugs like heroin and methamphetamine.

Nicotine addiction: Nicotine is widely consumed through cigarettes, vaping, and smokeless tobacco. Vaping, in particular, has surged in popularity among young people, partly due to its portrayal as a safer alternative to smoking and availability in youth-oriented flavours.

Alcohol addiction: Although alcohol is often viewed as an adult substance, many children are exposed to it at a young age. Factors like peer pressure, curiosity, and family environment can lead children to experiment with alcohol, sometimes resulting in dependency. Alcohol can impair memory, judgment, and motor skills.

Inhalant addiction: Inhalants, including everyday household items like glue, paint, and gasoline, are inexpensive and accessible, making them a common choice for children seeking a temporary high. Inhalant addiction is dangerous, as these substances deprive the brain of oxygen, causing brain damage.

Prescription drug addiction: Prescription medications, particularly painkillers, sedatives, and stimulants, are often readily available in homes and can become substances of abuse for children. In Bangladesh, unauthorised sale of prescription drugs remains an issue.

Cannabis addiction: Cannabis is one of the most commonly used drugs worldwide, and use among children is increasing due to rising social acceptance. Cannabis affects memory, attention, and learning, crucial developmental areas for children and adolescents.

Hard drugs (heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine): While less common, some children are exposed to hard drugs like heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine, particularly in high-risk communities. The effects of these drugs are devastating, leading to rapid physical deterioration, mental health issues, and social isolation.

Understanding the root causes of child drug addiction is essential for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. Key factors include peer pressure, family environment, mental health issues, drug accessibility, lack of education, and media influence.

Peer pressure and social influence: Peer pressure significantly contributes to child drug addiction, as children often experiment with substances to fit in with friends or older peers. For some, drug use is presented as a way to appear “cool” or more mature. A survey by the Bangladesh Ministry of Education revealed that 38% of students who used drugs initially did so under peer pressure.

Family environment: The family plays a critical role in a child’s development. Children raised in households where drug use is normalised, or where there is domestic violence, abuse, or neglect, are at higher risk of experimenting with drugs.

Mental health issues: Children with mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, or trauma, may turn to drugs as a coping mechanism. In Bangladesh, the availability of mental health resources for children remains limited, which can worsen the issue.

Drug accessibility: Accessibility also plays a role, as substances like alcohol, nicotine, and inhalants are relatively easy to obtain. Children in high-risk areas may have access to illicit drugs through community networks, making addiction a more immediate risk.

Lack of awareness and education: In many cases, children experiment with substances without understanding the risks. Schools in Bangladesh often lack comprehensive drug education programmes, leaving children unaware of the potential long-term impacts. A 2022 study found that only 15% of middle school students could accurately identify the risks of drug use.

Media influence: Media plays a significant role as well; children exposed to movies, music, and social media that glamorise drug use may perceive it as glamourous or enjoyable.

The impacts of drug addiction on children are devastating, affecting their physical, mental, and social well-being. Physically, drug addiction can lead to issues like respiratory problems, heart disease, liver damage, and neurological impairments. Addiction can also stunt growth and impair organ function. Drug use also disrupts learning, memory, and concentration. Social isolation and stigmatisation are common, as addicted children face exclusion and find it difficult to form healthy relationships. Furthermore, addiction raises the risk of criminal activity; addicted children may engage in crime to support their habits, which can lead to lifelong legal issues.

Addressing child drug addiction requires a collaborative approach involving families, schools, communities, and policymakers. Enhancing family support and parental involvement is essential, as parents play a significant role in preventing addiction by being informed, supportive, and communicative with their children. Providing access to mental health support is also crucial. Schools should offer counseling services, and more community mental health centres should be established to provide accessible resources for children. Schools should incorporate drug education into their curricula, teaching students about the effects of drugs and how to resist peer pressure.

To conclude, providing children with a supportive environment, education, mental health resources, and positive role models can help prevent drug addiction and safeguard their future