As Nepal joins the global community in observing the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, it’s crucial to reflect on how this growing crisis affects our community. With increasing reports of drug use among youths, especially in urban and semi-urban areas, the need for awareness, prevention, and community action has never been greater. ApEx spoke to some people to find out what they think should be done to tackle this issue. 

Bipulal Khayar Gole, 60

I have little information about its causes and harm but being a shopkeeper around a school area, I have encountered many students, especially boys, who take drugs. They don’t only harm themselves but also cause harm to other students too. I think they do such things to influence their friends. I have witnessed college and school students who are 15, 16 years old taking drugs and also disturbing them to other students and asking for money. We have tried counseling them but nothing has worked. Instead, they bring friends to try and scare us. The school committee has been looking into it and I hope they do something about it. 

Bina Shakya, 55

Drug use was more prevalent in the past, but looking at recent trends, it seems to have decreased in some areas. In my locality, there are no major cases, so I’m not aware of the current situation. However, factors like unemployment, excessive free time, peer influence, and the desire for enjoyment often lead young people to start using drugs. Schools and colleges need to take more responsibility of their students by including lessons on the harmful effects of drug use—on health, family, and society. Parents should also be attuned to their children’s behaviors and the company they keep. Families and communities play a crucial role in prevention by offering emotional support, monitoring behavior, keeping communication open, and encouraging positive habits and activities.

Prabin Yadav, 21

Drug abuse is a risky, expensive, and addictive thing which can harm you and also your family. I have heard news about people dying because of drug overdose. I believe people get into it because of peer pressure and influence, and a fascination to try new things. A friend of mine used to take weed but now he has started trying other things and I think it’s because he has money. I think there is a stark lack of awareness among people my age about how drugs can ruin you. You tend to think you can control your urges till the drugs start controlling you. 

Family and community can play an important role in controlling drug use among young people by making them aware of the consequences. But a larger policy level intervention is needed to tackle this issue.