The growing abuse of tramadol among Ghana’s youth has sparked urgent concerns, with mental health expert Bismark Kwabla Kpobi calling for immediate action to tackle the crisis.
In a press statement issued on March 27, the Executive Director of BSK Health Advocacy Foundation highlighted the alarming spread of the potent “red 225” variant, which is being misused for its euphoric effects, often with severe consequences.
Tramadol, a prescription opioid, has become easily accessible due to weak regulatory controls, leading to widespread abuse. The effects of prolonged use, including cognitive impairment, memory loss, mood disorders, anxiety, and psychosis, pose a significant threat to the mental well-being of young people. Beyond individual health risks, the crisis also jeopardizes Ghana’s socio-economic stability, as addiction can fuel poverty, crime, and social unrest.
Mr. Kpobi urged authorities to enforce stricter regulations, raise public awareness, and improve access to treatment and rehabilitation services to curb the situation. He also called on the media to play a pivotal role in educating the public and shaping policies to combat drug abuse.
With the crisis escalating, he emphasized the need for a collective national effort to protect the future of Ghana’s youth. Urgent intervention, he stressed, is crucial to preventing further damage and securing a healthier, more productive generation.
