By: Luqman Ahmad Khan
Pakistan is facing a rising crisis of drug addiction among its youth, posing serious social and economic challenges. With a predominantly young population, the increasing number of young individuals falling into substance abuse has raised concerns among experts, policymakers, and community leaders.
Experts attribute the growing trend of drug addiction among Pakistani youth to several factors, including unemployment, poverty, peer pressure, lack of awareness, and mental health issues. High joblessness rates leave many young people vulnerable, making them more susceptible to drug use as a means of escapism. In urban centers, the easy availability of illicit substances exacerbates the problem, while rural areas also struggle with substance abuse, often linked to local drug cultivation and the absence of recreational opportunities.
Additionally, a lack of awareness and insufficient education on drug abuse has allowed the problem to persist. Many educational institutions fail to include substance abuse prevention in their curricula, leaving young people uninformed about the risks of addiction. The absence of comprehensive awareness programs in schools and communities makes early intervention difficult.
Mental health challenges among young people further contribute to substance abuse. Academic pressures, societal expectations, and limited access to mental health resources push many toward drugs as a coping mechanism. Experts note that stigma surrounding mental health treatment prevents many from seeking professional help, increasing the likelihood of self-medication through illicit substances.
Cultural attitudes toward drug use also play a role. In some parts of Pakistan, substance use is not entirely stigmatized, making access easier. Traditional practices in certain communities, where drug consumption is integrated into cultural rituals, further normalize addiction.
The influence of social media and online platforms has also contributed to rising drug use. The glamorization of drug culture in films, music, and digital content desensitizes young audiences to the dangers of addiction. Moreover, drug dealers increasingly use social media to promote illicit substances, making drugs more accessible to young people than ever before.
Despite the alarming rise in drug addiction, efforts to combat the crisis remain inadequate. While Pakistan has rehabilitation centers, many are underfunded and lack the resources to address the scale of the issue effectively. Families often hesitate to seek treatment due to the stigma surrounding addiction, leaving young people without support. Community-based programs and recreational activities that could provide alternatives to drug use remain scarce.
Experts emphasize the need for a multi-pronged approach that includes education, prevention, and rehabilitation to address youth drug addiction. They suggest the integration of substance abuse awareness programs into school curricula and community engagement initiatives to educate young people about the dangers of drug use. Parental awareness and teacher training are also seen as essential tools for early intervention.
Stronger community support programs offering mentorship, recreational activities, and mental health services could provide young people with healthier alternatives. Additionally, while law enforcement must focus on curbing drug trafficking, experts stress the need for a rehabilitation-focused approach rather than punitive measures against addicted individuals.
With Pakistan’s youth playing a crucial role in shaping the country’s future, stakeholders across all sectors are being urged to take immediate action. Investing in education, mental health resources, and community-driven initiatives could help curb the rising trend of drug addiction and offer young people a path toward recovery and resilience.
As the crisis continues to unfold, experts warn that without swift intervention, Pakistan risks losing a significant portion of its young population to the grip of addiction, threatening both individual lives and the country’s long-term social and economic stability.