Drug abuse remains one of the gravest threats to Ghana’s youth and the nation’s future. Across the country, many young people are falling into the misuse of substances such as marijuana, tramadol, cocaine, alcohol, red 225, and other psychoactive drugs — often driven by curiosity, peer pressure, or stress.
Recent figures from the Mental Health Authority (MHA) reveal the extent of the crisis:
- In 2024, the MHA reported 3,765 cases of mental disorders related to alcohol use.
- In 2023, there were 5,554 cases of mental disorders linked to other psychoactive substances, up from 4,155 cases in 2019.
- The most affected age group is between 20 and 34 years, but alarmingly, children as young as 10 to 14 years are now being diagnosed with drug-related mental health problems.
- Meanwhile, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) disclosed that between 2021 and 2024, it destroyed over 150,000 kilograms of illicit drugs, including cannabis, heroin, methamphetamine, and others.
These statistics paint a disturbing picture of a growing national problem. Substance abuse is destroying lives, damaging families, and threatening the stability of communities. It leads to physical deterioration, mental illness, school dropouts, and a surge in social vices such as theft and violence. Economically, the nation bears the burden through lost productivity, rising healthcare costs, and the erosion of social values.
But all hope is not lost. The fight against drug abuse begins with every one of us — parents, teachers, community leaders, and the youth themselves. We must speak out, educate one another, support those battling addiction, and reject the culture of glorifying drug use. Together, we can say no to drugs and yes to life, education, and purpose.
Speaking on the BlueWaves Breakfast Show, Mr. Augustine Awinvom Akugri, Upper East Regional Deputy Director of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), urged parents to be vigilant and not allow their children to be influenced by peer pressure. He emphasized that peer influence remains one of the leading causes of drug abuse in society.
“Parents must take responsibility for the moral and social upbringing of their children. Peer pressure is destroying our youth, and we must act before it’s too late,” he said.
A collective national effort is needed to protect Ghana’s youth and build a drug-free future
