TARLAC CITY – The Department of Health (DOH) warned the public that drug abuse creates a domino effect on users, affecting not only their health but also their families and communities.
DOH Mega Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Center Psychologist Alpha Martin said drug abuse damages a person’s physical, mental, and social well-being.
She explained that the abuse of drugs creates a chain reaction that eventually affects all aspects of a person’s life.
“Sa tagal ng panahon na gumagamit ka, lumalakas din ang iyong paggamit and before you know it, apektado na lahat ng bagay sa iyong pagkatao (Over the long period that you have been using, your usage also becomes stronger, and before you know it, every aspect of your being is already affected),” she said.
Martin added that drug abuse does not only harm the user but also burdens the family and the community.
She discussed impacts such as broken trust, burden to the economy, increased crime, and growing stigma and discrimination.
To prevent these effects, she advised the public, especially the youth, to stay informed, make wise decisions, serve as good role models, join community health activities, and support anti-drug campaigns.
Martin also highlighted community prevention strategies including early education and awareness programs, active parental guidance, strengthened school and community initiatives, and positive role models and peer support.
She emphasized that the DOH, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Department of Education, and local government units continue to implement programs on prevention, education, rehabilitation, and reintegration as part of the government’s ongoing fight against drug abuse.
In its fight against drug abuse, the DOH is making efforts to expand rehabilitation facilities, aiming to establish them across all municipalities to make treatment accessible to everyone. (CLJD/AJRR, PIA Region 3-Tarlac)