In 8 months, 1137 drug-related cases documented at IMHANS

Srinagar, Dec 06: The Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS) Kashmir is witnessing an alarming rise in drug-related cases, receiving 5-10 new patients daily alongside 300-350 follow-ups.
Shockingly, 90% of the new patients are heroin users.
From April to November 2024, IMHANS documented 1,137 drug-related cases, predominantly involving heroin addicts and injectable drug users. Speaking to Rising Kashmir, Professor Dr. Yasir Rather said, “When someone reaches a stage where they face extreme challenges, their health deteriorates significantly. Socially and financially, they face immense difficulties. Without treatment, they cannot overcome the suffering caused by their condition.”
Dr. Rather highlighted the need for timely intervention and support, revealing that since authorities intensified their crackdown on drugs, patients are turning to alternatives like tapentadol, pregabalin, and synthetic heroin. Presently, 6,320 patients are enrolled at IMHANS for treatment.
Addressing the initial stages of addiction, Dr. Rather explained that drug suppliers lure individuals by offering free drugs. Once addicted, users are forced to buy from dealers. A 2022 IMHANS survey, conducted using respondent-driven sampling and the snowball technique, revealed alarming figures about opioid use in the region.
The survey found the overall prevalence of substance use to be around 2.4%, with opioid addiction specifically at 2%. Heroin was a significant contributor. Surprisingly, the prevalence rate in Kashmir was found to be higher than that of Punjab, a state often labelled as the “capital of addiction.”
He also highlighted the crucial role of families in preventing addiction. “If families pay attention to a child’s mental well-being from the beginning, the chances of addiction are greatly reduced,” he noted. Many individuals who succumb to addiction often face underlying mental health issues, making a positive home environment vital.
Community involvement is another key factor in combating addiction. Dr. Rather called on religious scholars, imams, and community leaders to use their platforms to address the issue. “These respected individuals play a significant role because people listen to them. Their guidance on addiction prevention can profoundly impact society,” he said.