By Lawrence Williams
Recent data from the Sierra Leone Psychiatric Hospital have shed light on alarming trends in substance abuse across the country. From January to September 2025, a total of 2,795 substance abuse cases were recorded — with 86% male and 14% female patients — signaling a worrying rise in drug dependence, particularly among young people.
Analysis of hospital data shows that substance abuse is most prevalent among young adults aged 20–29, who account for 52% of all cases (27% among those aged 20–24 and 25% among those aged 25–29). The rate declines steadily among older adults, with only 1% of cases recorded among individuals aged 60–64. These findings, experts say, point to a sharp concentration of drug use within the country’s youth population, especially males in their twenties.
Substances Most Commonly Abused
The report highlights Kush as the dominant drug of abuse, representing 61% of all cases. Tramadol follows at 16%, while Cannabis and Cocaine each account for 9%. Substances grouped as “Other” make up the remaining 4%.
Health experts have described the rise of Kush abuse as a national crisis, given its easy availability and severe mental health impacts. The high prevalence of synthetic drug use, they argue, underscores the urgent need for stronger policy interventions, community awareness, and youth rehabilitation programs.
Occupational Status of Users
When categorized by occupation, the data reveal that students and pupils make up the largest proportion of users at 40%, followed by unemployed individuals (29%) and full-time workers (20%). Only 5% of users were working part-time, while another 5% fell under other categories.
These figures suggest that students and jobless youth are the most vulnerable groups, reflecting broader socio-economic pressures such as unemployment, peer influence, and limited access to mental health support.
A Growing Public Health Concern
The findings from the Sierra Leone Psychiatric Hospital paint a sobering picture of the country’s substance abuse landscape. With Kush dominating usage and young males representing the majority of patients, the data highlight an urgent call for targeted education, prevention, and rehabilitation efforts. Public health authorities continue to urge parents, schools, and communities to play an active role in addressing this growing challenge.
