Q. Firstly, tell us about yourself and your educational background.

I completed my primary schooling at Moravian Mission School, then continued my studies from 6th grade onwards at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV). I pursued my MBBS degree from Government Medical College, Jammu, and then pursued post-graduation in psychiatry at AIIMS, Delhi, where I also served as a Senior Resident for three years. In 2021, I joined SNM Hospital in Leh as a Psychiatrist.

Q. How does drug use contribute to mental health issues, with some using substances to self-medicate and others developing mental illnesses as a result?

Drug use can create a circular relationship with mental health. Some individuals turn to substances like cigarettes or marijuana to self-medicate and manage mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression. On the other hand, prolonged drug use can contribute to or worsen mental health problems, leading to a cycle where drugs both cause and attempt to alleviate mental health struggles.

Q. Is drug consumption new for the people of Ladakh, or has it been present for a long time? What is the status of Ladakh today?

Substances like bidi (a thin cigarette), smokeless tobacco products such as khaini and gutka, have long existed in Ladakh’s society. Barley wine, or chang, has also been a historic part of local traditions, often consumed during celebrations and special occasions.

However, as time passed, exposure to outside influences increased. With youths traveling for education, the arrival of tourists, and the widespread impact of TV, the internet, and social media, Ladakh's society became more exposed to global drug culture. Today, cannabis products are commonly consumed by youths in Leh, while drugs like heroin, smack, brown sugar, cocaine, and painkillers are also prevalent. The situation in Leh has become concerning, with some individuals reaching the point of injecting drugs, highlighting the growing drug problem in the region.

Q. Can you tell us about hard drugs that are highly hazardous? How long does it take for a person to become addicted after initial usage?

Any substance that intoxicates the human body, including alcohol, cigarettes, or tobacco, carries risks. However, hard drugs like heroin, smack, and brown sugar are particularly dangerous due to their potency. These drugs quickly lead individuals into a cycle of increasing use and dependency.

Initially, users may mix these drugs with tobacco or cigarettes, but over time, the method of consumption often shifts to inhaling the fumes by burning the drug on aluminum foil. Eventually, users may resort to injecting the drug directly into their bloodstream.

As addiction progresses, the risks become severe, with overdose posing a significant threat to life. Sharing needles among users also heightens the danger, spreading bloodborne diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis. The path from initial use to addiction can happen quickly, depending on the drug and the individual, but it typically escalates within a short period of regular use.

Q. What are the common reasons for addiction that you see in Ladakh?

The reasons for drug consumption are largely similar worldwide, but they can vary across different age groups. Among older individuals, drugs are often consumed recreationally or as a means to cope with mental health issues. However, prolonged use can lead to dependence, and stopping drugs can trigger withdrawal symptoms, which vary depending on the substance.

For younger people, one of the main reasons for drug use is the easy availability of drugs. Secondly, drugs are often marketed with false claims about their benefits, which go largely unchecked.

Another unintentional factor is the widespread consumption of alcohol and cigarettes in homes. In Ladakhi culture, chang (barley wine) is frequently offered at various social occasions, which may encourage curiosity among younger individuals to try it.

Peer pressure is also a significant reason for drug use. Young people may adopt certain habits from their friends or social circles in an effort to fit in. Additionally, some individuals use drugs to temporarily cope with personal problems, such as family issues, relationship struggles, or academic stress, which can negatively affect their mental health.

Q. Which age group is more prone to drug consumption, and is it gender-specific?

The risk of drug consumption is most prevalent among youths under 25 years of age. At this stage, individuals are often immature and lack a full understanding of the negative impacts of drugs. The tendency to learn and experiment is higher, which means they are more likely to be influenced by both positive and negative behaviors.
Drug consumption is more common among boys or men, as smoking and drinking have long been socially accepted behaviors for men. In contrast, it is generally less acceptable for women to buy cigarettes or alcohol, making them less exposed to drugs. However, this does not mean that women cannot develop addictions. Studies have shown that once a woman starts using drugs, she tends to become dependent more quickly than men.

Q. What damages can drug consumption cause to a person’s life and those around them?

The damages caused by drug consumption extend beyond the individual to affect family members, friends, and others in their circle. Different substances cause varying physical and mental harm. For instance, alcohol consumption can lead to liver damage, gastritis, pancreatitis, dementia, and increased suicidal tendencies. Cigarettes are cancerous, while hard drugs have even more severe consequences, including life-threatening risks from overdoses.

Financial problems also arise from consuming powerful and expensive drugs, with some individuals spending between 5,000 to 15,000 rupees to purchase them. This often leads to victims pressuring family members for money, and eventually resorting to theft or criminal activities.

Moreover, drug use can increase the likelihood of domestic violence, negatively impacting the mental health of everyone in the household. The relationships within the family can deteriorate, and the individual suffering from addiction is often neglected both at home and in society.

Q. How can we encourage society to assist drug victims in seeking counseling and medication from specialists instead of neglecting them?

Education and awareness are key in preventing drug exposure, especially among children. Educating them about the dangers of drugs, their negative impacts on life, and the risks of peer pressure can help them make informed choices. It's important to highlight the consequences of associating with the wrong peers and succumbing to pressure.

However, for those already exposed to drugs, basic awareness may not be enough. For example, someone going through a stressful phase, like unemployment, might turn to alcohol to cope. Initially, they might feel that it helps reduce stress or provides better sleep, but over time, this can lead to dependence. In such cases, it’s crucial to identify the root cause of the stress and the underlying reasons for turning to alcohol or drugs.

Treatment should focus on addressing the primary issue—whether it's stress, emotional pain, or life crises—before progressing to medications or therapy. By supporting individuals in finding solutions to their problems, we can help them avoid turning to substances for relief, leading to a more effective and lasting recovery.

Q. How can different organizations help spread awareness about drug addiction?

Drug addiction is a complex issue, and society as a whole plays a role in its emergence, making it a social evil. Organizations dedicated to tackling this issue should focus on educating the public about its harmful effects, using evidence-based information to make the impact of drug use clear.

These organizations can also address the root causes of addiction, such as financial crises, unemployment, or other underlying issues. By identifying and working to resolve these factors, they can provide more targeted support to those affected.

To truly eliminate this social evil, society must reevaluate daily behaviors and activities. Simply advising individuals on the surface is not enough. It’s essential to delve into the root causes of addiction and make the necessary changes within the community to prevent further harm. This holistic approach can help bring about meaningful and lasting change. 

Message to the Readers

“Substance abuse affects both users and those around them. It's crucial to protect children from drug exposure and educate them about its dangers. For those already addicted, treatment and counseling are key to recovery. Let’s work together to address this issue and create a healthier society.”