Addressing substance abuse through community-based approach

As a community psychologist specialising in recovery support services, I have observed with growing concern the escalating substance abuse crisis in Nigeria, particularly among our youth. The statistics are alarming! The Nigeria Drug Use Survey of 2018 reports that 14.3 million Nigerians aged between 15 and 64 used drugs at least once in the past year, translating to a prevalence rate of 14.4 per cent—significantly higher than the global average of 5.6 per cent, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. The UNODC 2018 survey revealed that one in five Nigerian drug users exhibited drug use disorders, with the age group 25-39 most affected. These figures underscore the urgent need for comprehensive, community-based interventions.

The substance abuse crisis in Nigeria is rooted in a complex web of social, economic, and cultural factors. Peer pressure, particularly among adolescents and young adults, plays a significant role in initiating drug use. This is often compounded by insufficient parental supervision, leaving young people vulnerable to negative influences.

Socioeconomic challenges also contribute significantly to the crisis. The National Bureau of Statistics reported a staggering 34.9 per cent unemployment rate among Nigerian youth in 2020, driving many to use substances as a coping mechanism for their frustrations and limited opportunities. This high unemployment rate, coupled with poverty and lack of social support, creates an environment where substance abuse can thrive.

The consequences of substance abuse extend far beyond individual health. It impacts mental well-being, leading to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. Academic performance suffers as students struggling with substance abuse find it difficult to concentrate and meet their educational goals. Social relationships are strained, often leading to isolation and further substance use as a means of coping. This ripple effect underscores the need for localised, practical interventions that address not just the symptoms but the root causes of substance abuse. A comprehensive, community-based approach is necessary to tackle this crisis effectively.

I propose to the local government chairpersons and their executives, in partnership with their respective state governments, to establish recovery homes in every local government area in the country. This approach aligns with recovery objectives of improving access to quality care and implementing community-based programmes that promote health literacy and reduce stigma.

It is essential to distinguish between rehabilitation homes and recovery homes, as both play crucial roles in addressing substance abuse. Rehabilitation homes typically offer more intensive clinical care, including medical supervision and detoxification services. They focus on the initial stages of recovery, providing short-term care ranging from 30 to 90 days. While vital in the treatment continuum, rehabilitation homes can be costly due to their medical staff and facilities.

In contrast, recovery homes offer a less clinical, more community-oriented environment. These facilities provide longer-term care, often extending from several months to years. They focus on helping individuals maintain sobriety while reintegrating into society. Recovery homes are generally more affordable and emphasise peer support, making them an excellent option for those who have achieved initial sobriety or have less severe addictions. The primary healthcare providers should be trained to provide integrated services for people in recovery homes.

We advocate establishing recovery homes for our community-based approach, as they align better with long-term support and community integration goals. However, we recognise the importance of a full continuum of care, and many facilities may incorporate rehabilitation and recovery support elements.

Recovery homes provide a structured environment where individuals receive care tailored to their needs. These facilities offer several advantages that make them crucial in the fight against substance abuse. They provide a secure space for individuals to focus on maintaining sobriety while addressing the psychological, emotional, and social factors that contribute to addiction. By integrating counselling, therapy, and peer support, residents can address the root causes of their substance use and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

A crucial part of recovery is learning to manage and avoid triggers for substance use. Recovery homes offer education and support to help individuals recognise and handle these triggers, laying the groundwork for long-term recovery. Local recovery homes make this critical support accessible to everyone, regardless of location.

Furthermore, recovery is a personal journey, and these homes are designed to support individuals at every stage. Person-centered care tailors treatment plans to each resident’s unique needs, ensuring they receive the appropriate therapies and resources. Having recovery homes in every local government strengthens the support network and integrates it into local communities, reducing stigma and fostering a culture of empathy.

By establishing recovery homes in every local government, we can create a network of support deeply integrated into local communities and their cultures rather than a copy-and-paste approach. This approach not only makes treatment more accessible but also fosters a culture of empathy and understanding, which is crucial for long-term success in combating substance abuse.

Moreover, investing in recovery homes brings significant economic benefits. By helping individuals maintain sobriety and successfully reintegrate into society, these centres reduce strain on healthcare systems, lower crime rates, and boost overall productivity. This can lead to reduced healthcare costs, decreased crime-related expenses, and increased tax revenue from a more productive workforce, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. We must push for these necessary changes. Together, we can create a support system that reaches every corner of Nigeria, offering hope and healing to those struggling with substance abuse and their communities.

Omale is the founder of Substance Use Disorder Advocacy and Care Initiative