In Mumbai, a prominent de-addiction centre in Parel has reported a significant 15-20% rise in addiction cases among young adults this year, with most patients seeking help between the ages of 18 and 30. This trend has raised concerns among mental health professionals, who observe an increasing number of youths grappling with substance abuse. A detailed report regarding the same was published in the Free Press Journal.
Young Adults
Recent data shows that young adults make up the largest group at the centre, with 75 patients between 18 and 30 currently undergoing treatment. Other age demographics include 47 patients aged 31-45, nine under 18, and seven patients between 46 and 60. The centre’s dean attributes this increase partially to greater public awareness of their services, which may lead more people to seek help. Additionally, the centre has been working to raise awareness through outreach programs in schools, educating students and parents about addiction and available support services.
Substance Use Patterns
A senior psychiatrist at the centre noted a concerning shift in the substances used by younger patients. Previously, addiction cases mainly involved substances like marijuana, tobacco, sleeping pills, cough syrup, and alcohol. Now, however, cases involving high-value drugs like MDMA have become more common, even among economically disadvantaged youths. The psychiatrist expressed concern that access to expensive drugs by vulnerable young people is a troubling sign of the changing substance abuse landscape.
Expanded Facilities
As the only municipal hospital in Mumbai with a dedicated de-addiction outpatient department, the centre has expanded its facilities to meet growing demand. Last year, it added 45 new beds, resulting in an annual capacity to serve around 1,000 to 1,200 new patients, with many returning for follow-ups. Alcohol addiction remains the most common issue, accounting for nearly 70% of cases. In 2023 alone, 680 patients sought help for alcohol dependency, while another 270 received treatment for other substance dependencies, including marijuana, brown sugar, and sedatives.
Influence of Media
Doctors at the centre identified social and environmental triggers as major factors driving addiction, including peer pressure, stress, relationship issues, academic challenges, and media influence. According to the senior psychiatrist, the glamorization of substance use in movies and advertisements can strongly influence young minds, making it critical to address these factors through education and awareness initiatives.
Importance of Family Support
The head of psychiatry advised families against relying on unproven home remedies advertised for de-addiction, emphasizing that addiction requires professional care. Families are urged to consult qualified professionals, as unproven treatments could potentially harm patients. The psychiatrist also highlighted the essential role families and communities play in combating addiction. Parents are encouraged to monitor their children’s social groups, media habits, and spending patterns, while fostering open communication and quality family time. This united approach is crucial in preventing addiction and supporting at-risk youth.
Share
Tweet
