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Youth

Rising Concerns of Drug Abuse Among Youth in Karachi

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Rising cases of drug addiction among youth in Karachi have prompted concerns among parents, healthcare professionals, and government officials. A recent report by the United Nations and the Government of Pakistan highlights the alarming rate of drug use in the country, particularly among young people. Experts emphasize the need for parents to monitor their children's behavior and social circles, while the government should strengthen its efforts to curb the circulation of drugs.

Key Takeaways:

  • Approximately 7% of people between the ages of 15 to 64 use some kind of drug in Pakistan, with 9% being adult men and 2.9% being adult women.
  • The most commonly used drugs include hashish, crystal, ice, or cannabis, and sleeping pills and other tranquilizers.
  • 78.8% of narcotic addicts are men, with young people aged 25 to 54 being most affected.
  • In Karachi alone, 19% of the population is using drugs.
  • 28.6% of people addicted to drugs face anxiety disorders, while others experience depression, personality disorders, and psychotic disorders.
  • Factors contributing to drug abuse among youth include domestic disputes, socioeconomic problems, peer pressure, and feelings of deprivation.
  • Children exhibiting strange behaviors, such as staying awake at night and sleeping during the day, may be using substances and require counseling and social involvement.

Statistics:

  • 7% of people between the ages of 15 to 64 use some kind of drug in Pakistan (United Nations and Government of Pakistan, 2022-24).
  • 9% of adult men and 2.9% of adult women use some kind of drug in Pakistan (United Nations and Government of Pakistan, 2022-24).
  • 78.8% of narcotic addicts are men (Professor Dr. Iqbal Afridi, Jinnah Hospital).
  • Approximately 28.6% of people addicted to drugs face anxiety disorders, while others experience depression, personality disorders, and psychotic disorders (Professor Dr. Iqbal Afridi, Jinnah Hospital).
  • In Karachi alone, 19% of the population is using drugs (Professor Dr. Iqbal Afridi, Jinnah Hospital).

Sources:

  • United Nations and Government of Pakistan. (2022-24). Report on Drug Use in Pakistan.
  • Professor Dr. Iqbal Afridi. (Interview). Former Head of the Department of Psychiatry at the Jinnah Hospital.
  • Imran Waseem. (Interview). Member of an NGO battling drug abuse.

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