Illicit drug addiction is increasingly devastating families, schools and faith communities, with young people becoming particularly vulnerable to substance abuse.
Speaking on Nyansapɔ Fie on Plan B FM with host Akosua Gyamfua, Rev. Manful delivered a strong message on the need for society to better understand, confront and ultimately overcome the growing challenge of illicit drug use among the youth.
Rev. Manful noted that while human beings have the freedom to make their own choices, every decision comes with consequences. He explained that although drug use may begin as a personal choice, prolonged use can lead to addiction, gradually taking control of an individual’s life and affecting their peace, reputation, relationships and future.
He stressed the importance of identifying the root causes of drug addiction, pointing to peer pressure, social media, negative influences and other societal pressures as some of the factors exposing young people to substance abuse. He also highlighted what he described as spiritual dimensions to some cases of addiction, arguing that effective recovery should address the spiritual, physical and psychological aspects of the problem.
According to Rev. Manful, the effects of addiction extend beyond the individual, often resulting in broken trust, strained relationships and disrupted family life.
He urged parents, teachers and guardians to pay close attention to early warning signs, including sudden changes in personal hygiene, aggressive behaviour, disrespect, withdrawal and declining academic performance.
Rev. Manful cautioned against responding to addicted individuals with anger, insults or condemnation, saying such approaches could make them defensive and further complicate the recovery process.
Instead, he called for an environment built on love, compassion, open communication and active listening, while encouraging families and communities to combine spiritual support with professional medical and psychological assistance.
He stressed that tackling illicit drug addiction requires a collective effort involving parents, schools, churches, health professionals and the wider community to help affected individuals break free from addiction and reclaim their lives and purpose.
By: Sandra Kwapong
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