A Clinical Psychologist with the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Mrs Ijeoma Laluwoye, says family issues and crises could predispose individuals,especially adolescents and youths, to drug abuse.
Laluwoye told News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Jos that an individual (adolescent or youth) trying to avoid issues at home could resort to drugs as means of escaping from the reality at home to get short term happiness (euphoria).
She explained that family issues such as disharmony in the home, excessive discipline, inadequate or total lack of care by parents and excessive criticism, could predispose the individual to drug usage and abuse.
The psychologist also attributed family history as another predisposing factor, saying that children whom were born into homes where drugs and alcohol were abused, could grow up replicating same.
She said such an individual could think that it was a normal thing or way of life.
Similarly, the expert said, low self-esteem was also a predisposing factor which could lead some youths to drugs to help them have ability or courage to do what was expected of them.
Laluwoye said constant use of illicit drugs or psychotropic substances led to addiction and drug abuse.
She advised parents to be directly involved in the lives of their children and wards, orientate them on the ills of drug abuse.