Social work intervention strategies for victims of illicit drugs among youth of urhonigbe community Edo State.

ABSTRACT

This study examines the social work intervention strategies for victims of illicit drug use among the youth of Urhonigbe community, Edo State. The specific objectives were to identify commonly abused drugs, highlight the reasons for drug abuse, examine the major effects of drug abuse, find out the control measures of drug abuse, and evaluate social work intervention strategies for rehabilitation and curbing illicit drug use. The methodology involved was the random sampling technique which was used to select 150 samples from a projected population of 206,717 by the National Population Commission in 2022. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed using percentage (%). Related documents and literature were also utilized to gather information.  The findings established that commonly abused drugs include stimulants like Marijuana, caffeine, and tramadol. Peer pressure, lack of employment, and broken homes were identified as some reasons for drug abuse. Illicit drugs could lead to mental health problems, stroke, and sudden heart failure. The government should ensure that drugs that could be abused are not easily accessible and should only be obtained from a pharmacy with a doctor's prescription. Social workers should use case management in dealing with the rehabilitation of youths who abuse drugs as well as professional counseling. In conclusion, drug abuse is a serious health and social problem that requires the full cooperation of physicians, pharmacists, and law enforcement agencies including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for control.