The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has warned fresh students of the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale about the mental health, academic and legal consequences of drug abuse, as concerns over substance use among young people continue to drive prevention efforts.

The Northern Regional Command of NACOC issued the warning during a drug abuse sensitisation programme for fresh students, highlighting the risks associated with alcohol, cannabis, tobacco products, tramadol and the misuse of prescription medicines.

The programme sought to help students recognise the dangers of substance use, resist peer pressure and seek professional support when dealing with stress, anxiety and other emotional difficulties.

Presenting on the subject, ANCO Mubarik Musah explained that substance abuse could affect students’ physical health, mental wellbeing, academic performance, relationships and future prospects.

He noted that factors such as curiosity, peer pressure, academic stress, family challenges and emotional difficulties could influence students to experiment with drugs and other psychoactive substances.

Students were cautioned against using drugs or alcohol as a way of managing academic pressure and emotional distress, as such coping mechanisms could create further difficulties and affect their social and academic lives.

The sensitisation also highlighted warning signs of problematic substance use, including sudden behavioural changes, declining academic performance, withdrawal from social activities, financial difficulties and changes in social circles.