The National Rehabilitation Center (NRC) in Abu Dhabi has raised an urgent warning against the widespread misconceptions about narcotics. Moreover, the center highlights that addiction could begin with the very First use. Many believe that certain drugs are safe when tried once. However, medical evidence confirms that even a single exposure could trigger dependency either psychologically or physically. Thus, the UAE Drug Addiction Prevention is necessary.
UAE Drug Addiction Prevention: Myths That Endanger Society
“Cannabis is harmless because it is natural” is one of the most dangerous myths. In reality, it can cause serious mental and behavioral disorders. Similarly, people assume sedatives are less harmful, but they can damage the brain and nervous system when misused. “I can stop anytime I want” is an illusion of another big misconception. In reality, it could gradually take over brain function. Hence, it makes quitting extremely difficult.
Family: The First Line of Defense
The NRC and Abu Dhabi Police’s Anti-Narcotics Directorate highlight the important role of family in prevention. However, lack of supervision, emotional neglect, and poor communication at home could push children towards addiction. Hence, parents are requested to stay alert to the red flags, like mood swings, sudden isolation, poor school performance, weight loss, red eyes, and chronic fatigue. In addition, suspicious items such as syringes or burnt spoons could also be a red flag.
The Five Stages of Addiction
The NRC has highlighted the five stages of addiction mentioned below:
- Experimentation – usually during adolescence, driven by curiosity or peer pressure.
- Regular Use – drugs become part of a daily lifestyle.
- Risky Use – lying, financial issues, and withdrawal from family and friends begin.
- Dependence – daily functioning becomes impossible without drugs.
- Crisis Stage – complete loss of control, risk of overdose, severe illnesses, and criminal behavior.
Only urgent treatment at the specialized rehabilitation centers could save life at the crisis stage.
World-Class Rehabilitation Services
As a WHO Collaborating Center, the NRC gives evidence-based prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation programs in line with international standards. Moreover, it has a goal to reduce the burden of addiction and raise a drug-free generation in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Furthermore, the NRC highlighted that addiction does not happen by chance. Actually, it is the result of accumulated factors, like unstable family environments, negative peer influence, and lack of awareness. However, the road to recovery is always possible with family support and early prevention.
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