DRUG ABUSE AMONG YOUTH: A SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS OF PATIENTS AT D-DWARI DE-ADDICTION CENTER, SAMBA DISTRICT, JAMMU

Abstract

The youth serve as the backbone of a nation and play a crucial role in shaping its future. The development of a country depends significantly on how hardworking its youth are, with the economic progress of a nation being closely tied to the potential and contributions of its younger population. This article explores the issue of drug abuse and its associated effects, while also suggesting possible remedial measures to address this growing concern. The geographical location of Jammu and Kashmir (UT) makes it particularly vulnerable to the illegal trafficking of drugs, especially the smuggling of heroin from Pakistan into the region. This study examined the socio-demographic profile of substance abusers by analyzing data from 15 patients who were registered for treatment at the D-DWARI De-addiction Center in Gurha Salathia, Samba, Jammu, during the period of March 2024 to June 2024. The study aimed to achieve two primary objectives: first, to analyze the socio-demographic variables of substance abusers and second, to identify the substances most commonly abused among the youth. The results indicate that the majority of patients were in the age group of 21-30 years (46.7 %), followed by those aged 16-20 years (26.7%). In terms of educational background, a significant proportion of patients had qualifications up to higher secondary (33.3%) and matriculation (26.7%). A substantial number of patients reported their first experience with substance use between the ages of 16-20 years (53.3 %). Heroin was identified as the most commonly abused substance among the youth in Jammu (60%), followed by cannabis (26.7 %).