Chief Psychiatrist on factors motivating illicit drugs

Koforidua (Eastern Region), 28th June ?99-

 

Dr J.B. Asare, Chief Psychiatrist at the Accra Psychiatric Hospital, has said the desire for societal acceptance and struggle for affluence are the main factors responsible for the production and marketing of illicit drugs in the country.

He maintained that the increase in urbanisation compounded by the threat posed by foreign cultures facilitated by tourism will increase drug use and its trafficking.

Dr Asare was speaking at a durbar to climax the New Juaben Municipal Drug Abuse Awareness month in Koforidua at the weekend.

He said the stigma attached to drug use in the society extends to all members including non-users, adding that rampant disturbances in schools, armed robbery and the amount of money used in treating drug addicts are issues that should motivate every Ghanaian to do something about drug abuse.

He called on families to have more time for their children and urged communities to support the fight against drug abuse.

The Municipal Director of Health Services, Dr J.B. Buckle, said about 15 Senior Secondary Schools in the Municipality had participated in a month-long educational campaign programme. The campaign, he said, will continue till the message gets to the last drug user in the municipality.

He commended students and staff in the Municipality for their interest in the programme.

GRi?/