Youth Addiction: How To Save Your Child From It

 Youth addiction is a pervasive and devastating issue that affects millions of young people across the world, with disastrous implications for their health, overall well-being, and future prospects. What is addiction? It is a chronic brain disorder characterized by compulsive seeking and use of substance or behaviours despite negative consequences and warnings to desist from it. The causes of youth addiction are complex, involving a combination of genetic, environment, and social factors. 

One of the greatest causes of youth addiction is the influence of peers and environment. Young people often experiment with substances or behaviours as a way to fit in or cope with stress and emotions. Parents and caregivers can also contribute to the development of addiction in their children, often unintentionally. For example, parents who model addictive behaviours themselves are not helping matters at all as they are indirectly teaching their children to behave like  them. Therefore, parents and caregivers who indulge into substance abuse, excessive screen time, and promiscuity, and other evil behaviours, have already succeeded in teaching their children to learn those activities according to Albert Bandura's Social Learning Theory which states that children learn by observing and imitating their parents and the environment. Additionally, parents who are overly permissive and neglectful may fail to provide adequate guidance and support, leaving their children vulnerable to addiction. 

The impact of addiction on child development and overall life can be profound and long-lasting. Addiction can affect young person's physical and mental health, relationships, academic performance, and future opportunities. In the United States, for example, opioid epidemic has a devastating impact on young people, with many struggling with addiction and overdose. Similarly, in Australia, the misuse of prescription medications and illicit substances have become a significant concern among young people, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. Here in Nigeria, youth addiction is a serious issue. The Nigeria's apex drug and substance control agency (National Drug Law Enforcement Agency) has reported that more than 10 million young people are regularly using cannabis (Indian hemp or marijuana or weed) in Nigeria. The cannabis is a plant-based substance that contains a psychoactive compound called delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which makes users or addicts feel "high" after using it. It can be wrapped and smoked like cigarettes, vaporized, or used in cooking a delicacy like jollof rice. According to  NDLEA, cannabis is the most commonly abused substance in Nigeria. In many parts of Nigeria and West African countries, one can see gatherings of young boys and girls in different hide-outs smoking cannabis. They mostly gather every morning and evening at their smoking joints. Marijuana, unfortunately, poses a death threat to its users because it causes addiction, depression, and anxiety. It also triggers impairments of gross motor skills, such as impaired driving ability, memory, cognition, and social relationships. 

Nigerian youths are also addicted to tramadol abuse. What is tramadol? It is a synthetic opioid medication used for pain treatment. It has the potency to block pain signals and it also provides a sense of euphoria. It is Nigeria's second most abused drug after cannabis. Some of its negative effects include dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, constipation, and respiratory issues. The third most abused drug is codeine. It is supposed to be used as a pain reliever. It provides a pain relief and a sensation of happiness and relaxation. It causes respiratory problems, liver and kidney damages. The fourth most abused drug in Nigeria is cocaine. This is a powerful stimulant drug derived from coca plant's leaves. It makes users "high" like the above ones also. The negative effects of cocaine intake include heart rate increase, high blood pressure, dilated pupils, extreme pleasure and boldness.

Parents and caregivers can play a critical role in preventing and addressing addiction in their children. By maintaining open and honest communication, setting clear boundaries and expectations, and providing guidance and support, parents and caregivers can help their children develop healthy habits and coping mechanisms. Additionally, parents and caregivers can seek professional help and support for their children if they suspect addiction, such as counseling or therapy. In the United Kingdom, for example, parents and caregivers can access support services and resources to help their children overcome addiction, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and support.

Control strategies for youth addiction include prevention programmes, early interventions, and treatments. Prevention programmes can focus on educating young people about the risks and consequences of addiction, while early intervention can involve identifying and addressing addictive behaviours before they become entrenched. Treatment programmes include counseling, therapy, and medication-assisted treatment, depending on the individual's needs. In Canada, for example, treatment programmes that incorporate family therapy and support have been shown to be effective in helping young people overcome addiction. Examples from across the world demonstrate the effectiveness of different approaches to addressing youth addiction. In Japan, for example, a comprehensive approach to addressing addiction has been implemented, involving education, prevention, and treatment programmes. In contrast, in some developing countries, limited access to resources and support services can make it challenging to address addiction, highlighting the need for increased investment in prevention and treatment programmes.

In conclusion, youth addiction is a daunting issue that requires a comprehensive response. By understanding the causes of addiction, providing guidance and support, and seeking professional help when needed, parents and caregivers can help their children overcome addiction and achieve a healthy and fulfilling life.

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