Father Peter Konteh Reflect on Rampant Kush Intake
By Mohamed Konneh
“Deep reflections today after our very important meeting to discussion impact of Kush drugs on the mental health of young people in Sierra Leone. This call for health emergency, said Father Peter Konteh, the Executive Director of Caritas Freetown.
He said the impact of Kush drugs on the mental health of young people in Sierra Leone is devastating.
This he said is a crisis that demands immediate attention and action.
“We are facing a health emergency, and it is our collective responsibility to address it effectively.
Recent data and research have revealed a disturbing trend: the alarming rise in Kush usage among the youth in Sierra Leone. Kush, a potent form of cannabis, has been making its way into our communities, wreaking havoc on the mental well-being of our young population, he said.”
Father Konteh said the consequences are severe and far-reaching, affecting not only the individuals involved but also the society as a whole.
“Let us delve into the data that paints a stark picture of the situation. According to recent surveys, the prevalence of Kush use among young people has reached unprecedented levels. Shockingly, these numbers are not mere statistics; they represent the lives and well-being of our beloved young citizens, he said.”
The Executive Director noted that the impact of Kush on mental health cannot be ignored and that studies have shown a strong association between Kush abuse and a range of mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, psychosis, and cognitive impairments.
He said the consequences are devastating, hindering personal growth, impeding educational attainment, and perpetuating a cycle of despair for our youth.
‘To effectively address this crisis, we must understand the underlying factors contributing to the widespread use of Kush among young people. Socioeconomic factors, such as poverty and unemployment, create an environment where vulnerable individuals turn to substances as a means of escape.
He said Peer pressure and a lack of awareness about the risks associated with Kush further exacerbate the problem.
“Additionally, the limited access to mental health services compounds the challenges faced by those seeking help.
It is clear that we cannot afford to stand idle in the face of this crisis. We must declare a health emergency, mobilize our resources, and implement a comprehensive response plan, Father Konteh said.”
He the plan should encompass multiple dimensions, addressing prevention, treatment, and support for affected individuals and their families.
“First and foremost, we must launch an extensive public awareness campaign to educate our young people about the dangers of Kush. This should involve collaboration between government agencies, community organizations, and educational institutions, reaching every corner of our society.
Secondly, we must strengthen our mental health services and make them more accessible. This includes training healthcare professionals in identifying and treating substance abuse and related mental health disorders. Additionally, we must invest in the establishment of dedicated treatment centers and rehabilitation facilities equipped to provide comprehensive care, he narrated.”
He said “as we embark on this challenging journey, let us draw inspiration from successful interventions implemented in other regions. Countries facing similar challenges have witnessed positive outcomes through a combination of stringent regulation, community engagement, and holistic support systems.
He said by adopting and adapting these successful strategies, we can pave the way for a brighter future for our young people.
