Current Perspectives on Substance Use Disorder in Pakistan

This chapter explores the landscape of substance abuse in Pakistan highlighting the dual burden of prevalent misuse of conventional addictive substances including heroin, cannabis, and alcohol, alongside emergent newer drugs like ecstasy, posing a grave threat to individuals, particularly the youth. The societal, familial, and psychological factors contributing to drug addiction are examined, shedding light on the complexity of this issue. The need for comprehensive policies that resonate with indigenous concerns rather than merely responding to external pressures is emphasized. It explores various treatment strategies, focusing on the Indigenously Adapted Community Reinforcement Approach (IA-CRA) which has shown promising results in managing cannabis misuse and improving psychological well-being among affected individuals. Furthermore, the chapter probes into the Islamic framework concerning substance addiction, drawing upon theological models to understand addiction within the context of spirituality and religion which is a dominant force in Pakistan. This elaboration presents a unique treatment avenue for substance misuse in Pakistan.