Showkat Saakib Poshpori
Addiction is often narrowly defined as the use of substances like hashish, bhang, opium, or poppy. However, this limited understanding fails to capture the broader and more dangerous reality. Addiction is not confined to specific drugs; rather, it is a complex condition that can take hold of a person’s mind, behaviour, and lifestyle. It manifests in both visible and invisible forms, many of which society tends to ignore or even encourage.
One of the most destructive and widely prevalent forms of addiction is alcohol. It not only damages physical health but also impairs aql (reason), leading to poor judgment and harmful decisions. Alcohol addiction tears apart families, weakens social bonds, and often results in long-term psychological and emotional damage. Alongside alcohol, the growing use of injections and intoxicating medicines among youth is deeply alarming. These substances harm the body while simultaneously weakening mental resilience, leaving individuals trapped in a cycle of dependency.
Traditional narcotics such as opium, bhang, and poppy are widely recognized as harmful, and efforts are often made to control their use. However, another category of addiction exists that is frequently overlooked—abuse of everyday harmful substances like polish or chemical inhalants. These are often used by vulnerable individuals seeking temporary escape, but they gradually lead to severe physical and psychological destruction.
More concerning, however, are the forms of addiction that are not outwardly visible. These include excessive attachment to wealth, beauty, profession, power, knowledge, or even one’s own children. Such attachments are often praised by society, yet they can hollow a person from within. When taken to extremes, they foster arrogance, pride, and emotional detachment, ultimately damaging both the individual and their relationships.
Unfortunately, both government initiatives and public awareness campaigns tend to focus only on conventional drugs. While rallies and protests against narcotics are commendable, they often fail to address the deeper roots of addiction. Moreover, such activities can unintentionally disrupt daily life—patients may miss urgent care, students may lose academic opportunities, and workers may suffer professionally.
A key underlying cause of addiction is unemployment. When young people lack meaningful opportunities, they often experience frustration, loneliness, and a loss of purpose. This emotional void can push them toward substance abuse or other harmful behaviours. Poverty and social isolation further intensify this issue, creating an environment where addiction can easily take hold.
Marriage-related pressures also contribute significantly to the problem. Excessive financial demands—whether in the form of dowry or high mahr—place immense stress on young individuals. Those who are already struggling financially may feel overwhelmed and hopeless. This burden can push them toward unhealthy coping mechanisms, including addiction. Ironically, these practices are sometimes perpetuated by community leaders and influential figures who are expected to guide society toward better values.
Religious scholars and community leaders have a crucial role to play. By promoting simplicity in marriage and emphasizing ethical teachings, they can help reduce unnecessary societal pressures. Making marriage accessible and affordable is not only a moral responsibility but also a practical step toward preventing many social problems, including addiction.
Addressing addiction requires a collective effort. Governments must go beyond symbolic actions and implement practical, long-term solutions. Communities must acknowledge all forms of addiction, not just those involving substances. Families, educators, and leaders must work together to create an environment that fosters mental well-being, purpose, and balance.
If ignored, this silent crisis will continue to grow, affecting individuals and society at large. Recognizing addiction in all its forms is the first step toward building a healthier, more compassionate community.
