Protecting our children from the scourge of Illicit drugs

Public concern about the insidious spread of illicit drugs has intensified following the recent arrest of several members of an alleged organised crime syndicate involved in trafficking and other serious criminal activities. At the same time, law enforcement authorities have uncovered a precursor substance for methamphetamine (commonly known as ice), hidden storage facilities, a suspected processing plant, and an assortment of lethal weapons—clear signs of a sophisticated organised crime network.

- BY Dr. SIRI GALHENAGE PSYCHIATRIST [RETD]

In addition to methamphetamine, communities are increasingly exposed to other illicit substances such as heroin, cannabis, cocaine, and hashish. Alongside these are legally available but harmful substances such as alcohol and nicotine, which often serve as gateways to future drug abuse.

The single most important factor in protecting our children from drugs is their eradication from society. This daunting responsibility falls primarily on law enforcement agencies, yet it cannot succeed without the unrelenting support of the public. The task is made more difficult by the organised nature of these crimes and the involvement of individuals driven by greed.

This article will focus on three areas:

The Impact of Illicit Substances

While a detailed account of the effects of each drug is beyond the scope of this article, it is important to understand the general impact these substances have on vulnerable individuals.

The most alluring effect is their ability to elevate mood and create a false sense of wellbeing—making them highly addictive. With prolonged use, however, the opposite occurs: depression, mood instability, and even suicidal tendencies. They impair attention, concentration, and memory, with significant consequences for academic and professional performance.