NDA Warns of Surge in Drug-Induced Psychosis Linked to Synthetic Drugs
The National Drug Agency (NDA) has expressed concern over the increasing number of drug-induced psychosis cases in the country, attributing the rise to the growing use of synthetic drugs.
At a press conference yesterday, NDA officials highlighted the mounting challenges faced by both law enforcement and healthcare services in addressing the impact of these substances. Synthetic drugs, known for their potent and unpredictable effects, are significantly contributing to severe mental health issues among users, straining the Maldives’ treatment infrastructure.
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“A noticeable increase in cases of drug-induced psychosis is being observed,” an NDA official stated. “This is posing a major challenge for the treatment system.”
The official explained that the Maldives’ current approach focuses on detoxification and supporting individuals in overcoming substance dependency. However, the rising incidence of psychiatric symptoms linked to synthetic drug use is necessitating more extensive mental health interventions.
Despite the growing number of people affected by drug addiction, the NDA noted that relatively few individuals are seeking or receiving psychological support. The agency called on the community to assist with psycho-social care, stressing the need for voluntary efforts to bolster existing services.
The NDA also provided updates on rehabilitation programmes, reporting that 1,500 individuals are currently undergoing treatment at ten centres. In recent months, several suspended services have been reinstated, representing a positive step towards addressing the country’s drug-related challenges.
NDA Reports Increased Capacity at Maldives Drug Rehabilitation Centres
The National Drug Agency (NDA) has revealed that drug rehabilitation centres across the Maldives have the capacity to treat over 350 patients at a time.
During a press conference yesterday, NDA Chairperson Lubna Mohamed Zahir confirmed this capacity, emphasising that access to treatment has become more readily available to those in need.
NDA Chief Executive Officer Mohamed Rashid noted that all court-mandated individuals requiring rehabilitation are now undergoing treatment, with none left waiting for services. He explained that international best practices recommend home-based treatment as a first step, followed by semi-residential programmes if necessary. In more severe cases, confined treatment is implemented.
However, Rashid pointed out that in a closely-knit community like the Maldives, allowing patients to reintegrate into society without sufficient support poses challenges, given the limited facilities available to assist them.
Currently, over 400 individuals in the Maldives are receiving regular treatment and therapy as part of their rehabilitation, with many requiring psychiatric care, according to Rashid.
While acknowledging the difficulties, Rashid mentioned that the NDA is exploring changes to treatment approaches. These include mandating patient participation in activities aimed at improving their mental and physical well-being.
Drug abuse remains one of the most significant and widespread issues in the Maldives, with the NDA reporting that drug users are present across all local islands.
