Kota bharu: Drug abuse is a contributing factor to mental health disorders in the state, according to a psychiatrist at Raja Perempuan Zainab II Hospital, Nik Lili Ariantie Ahmad. She highlighted that hospital data from last year revealed that 543 patients at the specialist psychiatric clinic were found to have substance addiction alongside symptoms of mental disorders. "For last year's data, 31 cases were referred to the addiction clinic due to drug abuse issues coupled with mental health symptoms. These patients will receive treatment and are required to attend regular follow-up sessions," she informed Bernama recently.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Nik Lili noted that nearly half of the patients admitted to psychiatric wards have issues related to drug and substance abuse. While most cases involve adults, there are also instances among teenagers affected by synthetic drugs such as ketamine, methamphetamine, Epam, and 'mushroom' vape liquids. She explained that drug abuse, particularly at a young age or involving toxic substances like glue, can cause significant damage to brain function.
Dr. Nik Lili pointed out that synthetic drugs like methamphetamine, which can keep individuals awake for several days, may trigger psychotic episodes, including hallucinations and delusions. Addressing the misconception that mental health patients with drug abuse backgrounds lose cravings for substances, she clarified that this is not necessarily true. "Some patients continue using drugs even while undergoing treatment. Addiction itself is a disease. When they fail to stop, mental health symptoms can worsen," she stated.
She further explained that in some instances, patients relapse by taking illicit substances to alleviate symptoms such as anxiety or depression, ultimately worsening their mental health condition. Dr. Nik Lili emphasized that mental disorders related to drug use can occur at various stages, including during active use or withdrawal phases. Recovery depends on factors like duration of use, type of drug, family support, and continuous treatment.
Dr. Nik Lili urged the public to seek early treatment for mental health disorder symptoms and not to underestimate the impact of drug abuse on mental health.