Features
Drug Abuse ….the new normal
Drug abuse must be curbed
Ghana, known for its vibrant and lively youth, now faces crisis as drug abuse takes the centre stage.
In recent years, drug abuse has seeped into the very fabric of society, with the younger generation gripped by its pervasive influence. Parents, educators, and policymakers alike are sounding the alarm as the new normal threatens the future of the Ghanaian youth.
In this in-depth article, we shall delve into the root causes of this epidemic, explore the various substances fuelling the trend, and examine the dire consequences it has on the nation’s most valuable asset – “The Youth”.
Drug abuse is commonly described as the excessive and detrimental utilsation of various substances, which encompass both illegal drugs and the inappropriate usage of prescription medications. It entails the repetitive and compulsive intake of these substances beyond their intended purposes, resulting in adverse effects on the person’s physical and mental health, interpersonal connections and general welfare.
The rise in drug abuse has caught the attention of many. Something that once served as a gathering for bonding and joyous experience now serve as platforms for risky drug trials. This once-hidden issue has emerged from obscurity, posing a profound challenge to the core values of the Ghanaian society.
Factors influencing the epidemic
Various factors have contributed to the rise of drug abuse among the Ghanaian youth, casting a cloud of uncertainty over the nation’s future.
One of the many factors is the socio-economic differences in society. The widening gap between the rich and poor has left many disillusioned and desperate, driving them towards drugs as a coping mechanism for their struggles.
Also, the rapid urbanisation of Ghana has led to a sense of disconnection from traditional values, pushing the youth towards drugs as a means of belonginess and acceptance.
Another factor that has a high influence on the epidemic is the influence of the media. The glorification of drug culture in popular music, movies, and social media has permeated the psyche of impressionable minds, normalising dangerous behaviour.
The lack of mental health support is also a factor as it has forced some individuals to turn to drugs as self-medication, exacerbating the issue. The glamour of substances as an escape from life’s hardships has captivated the younger generation, leading to a notable rise in usage.
Substances in Vogue
Variety of substances has gained popularity among Ghana’s young generation, each carrying its own appeal and dangers. Some of these drugs such as marijuana which is commonly referred to as “wee” or “ganja,” has medicinal benefits and easily availability thus making it the preferred drug for many.
The abuse of tramadol, a painkiller has surged due to its numbing effects, leading to addiction and severe health problems.
Codeine Cough Syrup which is often mixed with soda or energy drinks and known as “lean” or “purple drank”, has become a hazardous trend among the youth, resulting in health risks and addiction.
Shisha also known as “hookah” has gained popularity among the Ghanaian youth as a social and recreational activity. Flavoured tobacco, often in various appealing flavours, is smoked using a water pipe. Despite the perception of being less harmful than cigarettes, shisha smoking still poses health risks, including nicotine addiction and exposure to harmful chemicals released during the smoking process.
Consequences of the New Normal
As the drug abuse epidemic becomes the new norm among the Ghanaian youth, the effects reverberate far and wide, casting a dark shadow over individuals and the nation as a whole.
The long-term abuse of drugs takes a devastating toll on physical and mental health.
Drug Users and abusers face increased risks of chronic diseases, respiratory issues, and mental disorders. The burden on the healthcare system escalates as treatment and rehabilitation demand more resources, hindering the nation’s ability to provide quality healthcare to all.
Drug abuse again, significantly disrupts cognitive abilities, affecting academic performance among the youth. Diminished focus, memory lapses, and impaired decision-making hinder their potential to excel in education. Consequently, the future workforce faces diminished productivity and struggles to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.
The pursuit of money to sustain drug habits propels some youth towards criminal activities. Engaging in theft, robbery, or drug-related offenses becomes a desperate means to fuel their addiction. The vicious cycle of crime and violence further destabiliszes communities, undermining the safety and well-being of all citizens.
With a growing population of unproductive and unhealthy individuals, Ghana is likely to face economic challenges. Drug abuse depletes the workforce’s potential, limiting economic growth and prosperity. Increased dependence on social welfare systems strains government resources, diverting funds that could have been invested in vital developmental projects.
Addressing the Crises
To combat the pressing issue of substance addiction, a comprehensive and multifaceted approach is necessary. Drawing upon the insights of experts, healthcare professionals, and support groups, the following strategies emerge as key elements in addressing the crisis.
Medications such as Methadone, Buprenorphine, Naltrexone, and Lofexidine play a vital role in moderating withdrawal symptoms during opioid addiction treatment. However, it is crucial to conduct thorough investigations and involve specialists to tailor treatment plans to individual needs, as certain conditions may require special attention.
Also, Psychotherapy including evidence-based approaches such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), are essential components of addiction treatment. These therapies help individuals understand and manage triggers, develop coping mechanisms, and promote behavioural change.
Another element in managing the crisis is Detoxification which involves managing withdrawal symptoms while aiming for abstinence. This process is guided by the principle of cross-tolerance, wherein one addictive substance is replaced with another and gradually withdrawn. Regular follow-up and monitoring of individuals with substance use disorders are crucial to track treatment progress, identify necessary adjustments, and provide ongoing support.
Leveraging local resources and support groups is integral to the recovery journey. In Ghana, organisations like the Hopeful Way Foundation and the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health provide vital support to individuals and families affected by addiction. The Mental Health Authority also plays a crucial role in providing resources and guidance. Support groups also provide a sense of community, understanding, and encouragement, facilitating the recovery process for those grappling with addiction.
Conclusion
The consequences of the drug abuse epidemic in Ghana are evident and demand immediate attention. As a nation, we must confront this issue with unwavering resolve and solidarity. Intensively educating the youth about the risks of drug abuse, ensuring easily accessible rehabilitation services, strengthening law enforcement, and prioritising mental health support are crucial measures to combat this pressing crisis. Additionally, with the recent passing of the law legalising cannabis for medicinal use, there is the need to monitor its potential impact on drug use trends.
Addressing the growing acceptance of drug abuse will guide Ghana towards a brighter and healthier future for its youth and the entire nation. By joining forces, we can rekindle hope, resilience, and prosperity for generations to come.
By Josephine Nyorkor Ntreh
Level 300 student, Ghana
Institute of Journalism (GIJ)
Features
The Prophet part 9
Antubam followed her. She indicated for him to sit down. She was about to call Mary when she emerged from the hall, followed by Suzzie.
“It’s good you are both here,” she said. “There’s something I need to tell all three of you. Mr Antubam, I will not waste time on your so-called interest in me, because you and I are two very different people with absolutely nothing in common. The main point I want to make now is that your so-called church is nothing but a fraud with which you are deceiving people who may be ignorant today, but are still precious in God’s sight.
Apart from deceiving them and enriching yourself, you are using God’s name to commit fraud. Today you may be enjoying money, food, alcohol and women, but you will certainly pay a high price for it, unless of course you are willing to repent now. My concern is for my two sisters.
I am demanding that they cut all links with you, now. No visits to your home or church, and no telephone calls. I have told them to give you back every penny you have given them. I am prepared to find money to pay whatever they owe you. That is all I have to say.”
Antubam rose, furious, and pointed his finger at her.
“Let me warn you, Betty. Yes, I am interested in you, and I am ready to take care of all your needs, even to rent a house and buy a car for you. But I will not allow you to insult me. You better withdraw those words you have used against me now, or I will deal with you very soon.”
“Don’t make me laugh, Antubam. You? Deal with me? Why don’t you deal with me now? You have to wait till you go to the shrine and beg the fetish priest to deal with me? See how miserable you are? I dare you! Leave my house now, and go to that miserable fetish priest and get him to rain down all his powers on me!”
“You will see!” Antubam declared as he moved towards his car. He hesitated for a moment to see if Mary and Suzzie would walk him to the car, but noticing that they were firmly glued to their seats he got in the car and drove home.
He got out of the car and went straight to the drinks cupboard, poured himself a full glass of whisky and gulped down half of it. He sat down and called his batman, Kofi Takyi.
“Which two women did you call today?”
“Aggie, one of the new members is in. She is having supper in the guest room. Priscilla will be coming around 9pm.”
“Good work, Kofi. Now, get me my food.” After wolfing down the fufu and light soup, he gulped down the other half of the whisky and stretched out on the sofa and began a smooth, rhythmic snore. Priscilla entered, walked over and, shaking her head, strolled to the bedroom.
Betty came from the shower to find the two friends still glued to their seats.
“Well? Aren’t you two going to say anything?”
“I have something to say,” Mary said. “I don’t understand you, Betty. You want us to cut all links with Antubam, and to refund all the money he has given us. Now, when we do that, do we come back here tomorrow, sit and stare at the sky and hope and pray that our holy sister (Betty) will bring us manna to eat?”
“Such a stupid statement must not come from you, Mary. What happened to your WASSCE qualifications and your intelligence? Here’s some free advice. Get on the internet. Submit applications for university admission. I am prepared to pay for the two of you. And from tomorrow, start studying the Bible seriously, with the intention of doing what it says. I assure you, there are solutions in the Bible for every problem you face today, and will face tomorrow. All you need, Mary, is to use your God-given intelligence. How could you stoop so low as to take money from a common thief and drunkard like Antubam?”
Suzzie rose quietly and held Betty’s hand. “Do you know, Betty? Until a few minutes ago I did not know that you cared so much about me that you consider me your sister. I promise you. We will do as you say. Mary, we will go and collect the rent money, add it to all the money we have taken, and pay it into the account. From tomorrow, Betty, Mary and I will follow you wherever you go’. With tears streaming down her cheeks she walked away.”
Antubam got up with a start. He checked the time on his phone. It was midnight. He sat up, and was moving towards the bedroom when he heard the voices.
“Is anything the matter?” he said. “You have never come here at this time. I thought you only come at dawn.”
“We are always here. We only contact you when we have to. We have to warn you. That girl is trouble. If you don’t leave her alone there will be problems.”
“I don’t understand. I can’t leave her alone. I must sleep with her as many times as possible, conquer her. Why can’t you get her for me?”
“She is firmly buried in the book. You are sleeping with two women every night, and there are many more available in the church. Leave that girl alone?”
“Do you fear her? What book is that? I don’t know why…..” before he could finish the sentence several flashes of pain like a horsewhip on fire cut across his back, and he yelled, bringing Priscilla and Aggie from their rooms.
“What is it, Antubam?” Priscilla asked.
“Er…er. I saw a revelation about a church member who is in some trouble. I need to pray for her. Please go back to the rooms. I will join you soon.” Aggie went to the room, but Priscilla lingered.
“Antubam, why don’t you tell me what the problem is so that I can help you? It appears you have just received some spiritual lashes. Are you being punished for something you have done?”
“Perhaps your husband is punishing me for sleeping with you.”
“Do you dare insult me, Antubam. You will certainly regret speaking to me like this?”
“You have a loud mouth, but your only abilities in life, Priscilla, are sex and extorting money. I will come and sleep with you shortly, and give you money in the morning. Now leave!” She slipped out quietly, and the voices resumed.
“Next time you talk like that you will receive a much bigger punishment. We are only trying to protect you. You are planning to go to the shrine tomorrow morning to invoke curses on the girl. Be careful. Our master may grant your wish if you press him, but you may regret it.”
“I am sorry if I sound ungrateful, but I just can’t resist that girl. She is so beautiful and sexy. Moreover she has insulted me, and I must punish her.”
“Remember we warned you. You are already in danger. One of your competitors is asking questions about you, and thinking about the possibility of dealing with you. Jehoshaphat Agyiri. Everyone calls him Gidigidi.”
“I have heard of him. But what have I done?”
“He belongs to us. We work for him. He wants to check if you will threaten him. He can’t do you any harm as long as you use the stick. But your main problem will come from the girl.”
“Thank you for your help. As for the girl, please talk to Nana Broni for me. I am ready to pay anything for the pleasure of catching that girl in my bed and disciplining her.”
“Antubam,” Priscilla started, “are you going to apologise for the way you spoke to me? And are you going to apologise for bringing another woman here even though I am here with you?”
“Are you going to collect money from me tomorrow morning, Priscilla?”
“Get into bed, you idiot. I wonder why those women in the church cannot see you for the cheap fraudster you really are.”
Antubam took off at dawn, and arrived at the shrine before five.
“You are welcome, Antubam. We know, yet we still ask, as the saying goes. What brings you here?”
“You already know, Okomfo. I must have the girl at all costs. I am prepared to pay anything.”
“I have already consulted Nana Ama Kokoben. I have prepared a fire for her. She will be here any minute, with her mirrors. What you are asking is beyond me, but she is willing to help you. Ah, here she is.”
The small woman sat on a stool next to Okomfo, and stared into Antubam’s eyes for several minutes.
“I will try to help you, but the effort will come from you.” They moved over to the fire, and she placed the two mirrors over the fire.”
“Look! You will see the girl. Take this needle. When she appears in the mirror, pierce her eyes with the needle. By the time you get back to Tafo she will be at your house. From today, she will follow you just as a dog follows its master.”
By Ekow de Heer
Features
Toothache: Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options
A toothache is a painful sensation in or around a tooth, which can be caused by a variety of factors.
It is a common dental emergency that can affect anyone, regardless of age or oral health.
Toothaches can range from mild to severe and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, sensitivity, and difficulty chewing.
Causes of toothache
There are several causes of toothache, including:
1. Tooth decay: Tooth decay is the most common cause of toothache. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth break down the enamel of the tooth, creating a cavity.
2. Gum disease: Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, can cause toothache. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth infect the gums, causing inflammation and pain.
3. Cracked tooth: A cracked tooth can cause toothache. This can occur due to biting or chewing on something hard, or due to a blow to the mouth.
4. Dental abscess: A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that forms in the gum tissue. It can cause severe toothache and swelling.
5. Grinding or clenching: Grinding or clenching the teeth can cause toothache. This can occur due to stress, anxiety, or a misaligned bite.
6. Loose or broken filling: A loose or broken filling can cause toothache. This can occur due to wear and tear, or due to a blow to the mouth.
Symptoms of toothache
The symptoms of toothache can vary depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:
1. Pain: A sharp, stabbing, or dull ache in the tooth or surrounding gum tissue.
2. Sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, sweet or sour tastes, or pressure.
3. Swelling: Swelling of the gum tissue or face.
4. Difficulty chewing: Difficulty chewing or biting due to pain or discomfort.
5. Bad breath: Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth.
Diagnosis of Toothache
Diagnosing toothache typically involves a combination of:
1. Visual examination: A visual examination of the tooth and surrounding gum tissue.
2. X-rays: X-rays may be taken to check for signs of tooth decay, abscesses, or other problems.
3. Percussion test: A percussion test, which involves tapping on the tooth to check for sensitivity.
Treatment options for toothache
The treatment options for toothache depend on the cause and severity of the condition. Common treatment options include:
1. Fillings: Fillings may be used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay or trauma.
2. Extractions: In some cases, a tooth may need to be extracted due to severe decay or damage.
3. Root canals: Root canals may be performed to remove infected pulp from the tooth.
4. Crown or bridge: A crown or bridge may be used to repair a damaged tooth or replace a missing tooth.
5. Pain relief: Pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may be prescribed to manage pain and discomfort.
Home remedies for toothache
There are several home remedies that can help to alleviate toothache, including:
1. Cold compress: Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help to reduce pain and swelling.
2. Salt water rinse: Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
3. Cloves: Applying a clove to the affected tooth can help to numb the area and reduce pain.
4. Over-the-counter pain relief: Taking over-the-counter pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to manage pain and discomfort.
Prevention of toothache
Preventing toothache involves maintaining good oral hygiene habits, including:
1. Brushing and flossing: Brushing and flossing regularly to remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth.
2. Regular dental check-ups: Regular dental check-ups can help to identify and treat oral health problems early on.
3. Avoiding sugary and acidic foods: Avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks can help to reduce the risk of tooth decay and erosion.
4. Wearing a mouth guard: Wearing a mouthguard can help to protect the teeth from injury during sports or other activities.
Conclusion
Toothache is a common dental emergency that can be caused by a variety of factors.
Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for toothache can help individuals to seek prompt treatment and alleviate pain and discomfort.
By maintaining good oral hygiene habits and avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks, individuals can reduce their risk of developing toothache.
By Robert Ekow Grimmond-Thompson
