Srinagar, June 30 -- Substance use disorder, commonly known as drug addiction is a serious public health challenge confronting Kashmir. National estimates and localized clinical studies indicate that approximately 13.5 to 14 lakh individuals in the region use psychoactive substances. What is even more worrying is that the use of certain substances like opioids, inhalants and sedatives has been found to be substantially higher than the national average.

Despite the negative consequences as a result of substance abuse, surprisingly not many individual seek treatment and rehabilitation. Global data have also confirmed that only 8.1% of individuals with drug use disorders receive professional treatment. While treatment facilities have expand...