Ask the Doctor

The Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC) J&K, in collaboration with Government Degree College Kulgam and CMO Kulgam, recently organized an awareness programme on drug addiction and its devastating physical, mental, and social consequences. It was encouraging to see young people engage with courage and curiosity on this vital issue affecting their generation.

Below are some key questions we received.

Q: What is the current scenario of drug addiction in Kashmir?

A: The situation in Kashmir is deeply concerning. An estimated 13.5 lakh people in Jammu & Kashmir are addicted to various drugs, including over 1.68 lakh minors aged 10–17. Among adults (18–75 years), around 4.47 lakh use opioids, and many also abuse sedatives, cannabis, and inhalants. A survey of 10 districts in Kashmir revealed that opioid dependence is about 2.23% of the population (~52,404 people), of whom roughly 32,000 inject drugs regularly. Nearly 90% of users are aged between 17 and 33. IMHANS Srinagar reports heroin users in the region spend about ₹90,000 per month on their addiction.

1. Why do young people start taking drugs in the first place?
2. Many begin out of curiosity, peer pressure, or the belief that “just once” won’t hurt. For others, it starts as an escape from stress, loneliness, or family problems. What begins as experimentation can quickly turn into dependence.
3. How do drugs actually affect the brain?
4. Drugs hijack the brain’s reward system by flooding it with dopamine—the “feel-good” chemical. Over time, the brain stops producing dopamine naturally, making it difficult to feel pleasure without the drug. This creates craving and addiction.
5. Are all drugs equally dangerous?
6. No. But all carry risk. Heroin, cocaine, and synthetic drugs cause rapid dependence, but even prescription pills, cough syrups, and “study drugs” can be addictive when misused. The false sense of safety around these substances makes them especially dangerous.
7. Can someone be addicted without realizing it?
8. Yes. Addiction often starts silently. Tolerance develops—needing more of the drug to get the same effect. Gradually, control slips away. People may deny the problem, saying, “I can stop anytime,” even as their life revolves around the substance.
9. What are the early warning signs of addiction among friends or classmates?
10. Sudden withdrawal, mood swings, secrecy, changes in friend groups, loss of interest in studies, frequent money requests, and neglect of appearance are red flags. Early recognition can save a life.
11. How does drug abuse affect families and society?
12. Addiction is never private. It brings emotional trauma, financial strain, and loss of trust within families. On a larger scale, it damages community wellbeing, fuels crime, and erodes social stability.
13. Is drug addiction treatable?
14. Absolutely. Addiction is a disease, not a moral failure. With medical care, counseling, family support, and rehabilitation, recovery is possible. Many who seek help go on to lead fulfilling, drug-free lives.
15. How can colleges and administrators help prevent drug abuse?
16. By making campuses emotionally safe. Setting up peer-support clubs, counseling centers, awareness workshops, and confidential help desks can detect problems early. Institutions should combine strict policies with compassion and rehabilitation pathways.
17. What can students do to protect themselves and their peers?
18. Learn to say NO without guilt. Don’t bow to peer pressure. Choose healthy outlets for stress—sports, art, volunteering, or open conversations. If you see someone struggling, reach out or guide them to professional help.
19. What’s the single most important message for our generation?
20. True strength is saying no to drugs—and yes to purpose, clarity and control.

NOTE: These responses are for general awareness, not a substitute for medical advice.

Ask your questions at: WhatsApp: 6005463346, Email: ask@moulmoujfoundation.org