IT IS alarming and concerning that more young people are getting addicted to drugs, and that drug abusers are getting younger ("Drug abuse among youth on the rise"; last Tuesday).
Schools need to educate the young about the implications of drug abuse. They should raise awareness of the underlying factors leading to abuse, such as peer pressure and the influence of the media and Internet.
With awareness, potential drug abusers can receive early help through counselling and outreach services.
The authorities, such as the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB), need to step up checks and raids to flush out drug peddlers, to curb the availability of drugs.
It is also important that the CNB continue to partner schools with at-risk youngsters, and bring back campaigns to promote the anti-drug message.
Family service centres should closely monitor at-risk youngsters and give them support by helping them with their problems so they do not turn to drugs as an escape.
Having a dedicated centre to help young drug offenders kick the habit while carrying on with school or work is a useful initiative ("Housing young offenders"; last Tuesday).
Due to the stigma attached to drug abuse and addiction, it is important to give offenders the chance to get help anonymously.
With stringent enforcement, legislation, positive encouragement and support, potential drug offenders can stay away from drugs and pursue their passion or talent in life.
Darren Chan Keng Leong
Schools need to educate the young about the implications of drug abuse. They should raise awareness of the underlying factors leading to abuse, such as peer pressure and the influence of the media and Internet.
With awareness, potential drug abusers can receive early help through counselling and outreach services.
The authorities, such as the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB), need to step up checks and raids to flush out drug peddlers, to curb the availability of drugs.
It is also important that the CNB continue to partner schools with at-risk youngsters, and bring back campaigns to promote the anti-drug message.
Family service centres should closely monitor at-risk youngsters and give them support by helping them with their problems so they do not turn to drugs as an escape.
Having a dedicated centre to help young drug offenders kick the habit while carrying on with school or work is a useful initiative ("Housing young offenders"; last Tuesday).
Due to the stigma attached to drug abuse and addiction, it is important to give offenders the chance to get help anonymously.
With stringent enforcement, legislation, positive encouragement and support, potential drug offenders can stay away from drugs and pursue their passion or talent in life.
Darren Chan Keng Leong
