Drug abuse has now become a major crisis that seriously affects families, young people, and teenagers in this era. Many individuals fall into addiction as a way to escape the hardships and crises of life, seeking shortcuts to forget their struggles or evade responsibilities.
It is often said that drug addiction begins with something as seemingly harmless as smoking, which is often misinterpreted as a mere form of entertainment. The next step from smoking is alcohol consumption, and eventually, narcotic abuse follows.
Alcohol consumption has now been normalized in society. It has become a common sight at all gatherings—whether religious ceremonies, family celebrations, or even at funerals. The shift from alcohol to narcotic use is the natural next step for many. One of the reasons for the increasing use of narcotics is that they often lack a distinct odor and are not easily detectable through external behavior. Today’s younger generation is increasingly drawn away from natural intoxicants and towards chemical-based substances such as cocaine, heroin, and marijuana.
We live in a time when society’s conscience has eroded to the extent that some even question whether drug addiction is truly a serious issue. However, we bear a social responsibility to protect our community from this threat. This is precisely why the Church has established de-addiction centers in various places-to eliminate drug dependence from society and nurture a better generation. Unfortunately, many do not make use of these facilities. Often, individuals are only brought into de-addiction centers by force, when they have become a danger to themselves and their families.
Some young people are entering the drug trade as an easy way to make money, without the hard work required in traditional professions. We must actively work to prevent this misconception from spreading in society—that one can acquire wealth effortlessly.
A society with strong moral values plays a crucial role in character formation. Therefore, it is essential to enhance the moral awareness of our community. Whether a child, a teenager, a young adult, or the head of a family, each person must uphold a value-based perspective while fulfilling their responsibilities. The failure of certain traditions in passing on moral values has contributed to these deviations in society. We must implement training programs across all learning environments to promote a value-driven life and cultivate strong character.
The growing drug addiction crisis is becoming a major burden on the Church. Just as the Church has fearlessly declared that alcohol is poison and destroys families, society, and the soul, it must now take up a relentless battle against narcotic abuse. The Church is committed to raising awareness about the harmful effects of drug addiction.
Let us all work together with determination to free ourselves and society from the grip of drug abuse. This can only be achieved if people stand together, beyond religious boundaries, in unity. No religion encourages drinking or drug use. Therefore, we must create and strengthen interfaith platforms to fight this crisis and explore all possible ways to address it.
Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil
