Children as young as Year 4 using drugs, doctors told

Some teenagers treated at Saint Giles Hospital for behavioural changes linked to drug use reported that they first used cannabis or methamphetamine while in primary school, doctors were told during a conference in Labasa.

Acting chief medical officer Dr Afia Zahin shared the observation during a presentation on drug abuse rehabilitation at a Fiji Medical Association mini conference held at the Ramada Hotel last Saturday.

The one-day conference brought together doctors from across the Northern Division.

Dr Zahin said children aged between 13 and 17, who were seen at the hospital last week with behavioural changes, disclosed that they had used cannabis or methamphetamine.

Some told clinicians their drug use began when they were in Years Four and Five.

She said the children were often accompanied by cousins, grandparents or parents.

“While sitting in the consultation room, parents found out about this for the first time,” Dr Zahin said.

“The judgement side of us is that how come we didn’t know; but that’s not the way to go.”

Dr Zahin said it was important for families and healthcare professionals to approach the issue with empathy.

“It is very difficult to understand that it could be happening to your friends and family members and you need to be empathetic about it,” she said.

“It is difficult for the patient and as well as for the parents or loved ones to accept what is happening and I tell you its not easy.”

She urged doctors and the public to pay attention to behavioural changes that could indicate substance abuse.

“When you find children behind closed doors, or coworker not performing like before, people getting themselves isolated or not staying contact like before, please contact them and ask questions; that is how you will be able to recognise drug abuse,” she said.

Dr Zahin advised doctors to consider the possibility of drug use when assessing changes in behaviour.

“Anyone presenting to you please consider the current drug abuse crisis and ask your patients about drug related issues,” she said.

“Fiji doesn’t have a rehabilitation centre but I think rehabilitation starts with us and if you able to build a relationship with a person sitting infront of you then rehabilitation starts with you.”

She said building trust and listening to patients were important steps in supporting recovery.

“The patient is not coming to you to be lectured upon as most of the time they know the problem they are facing,” she said.

“How you talk to them will help start rehabilitation process; Understand that addiction is not a switch and it cannot be turned off when they reach home.

"Come down to their level and understand their goal and expectations.”