Malta’s Drug Abuse Crisis: OASI Warns of Rising Numbers
In the heart of Malta, at the bustling St. Vincent de Paul Street in Birkirkara, the OASI Foundation’s headquarters hums with a quiet urgency. Here, the team is fielding a staggering number of calls – over 6,000 in the past year alone – from individuals grappling with drug abuse. The numbers are climbing, and the foundation is sounding the alarm.
Rising Tide of Drug Abuse in Malta
Malta’s drug abuse scene is shifting. According to OASI, the number of people seeking help has surged by 25% since 2019. The foundation, a leading voice in Malta’s fight against substance abuse, is seeing a worrying trend: more young people, more women, and more professionals are reaching out for help.
Cracking the Code on Rising Abuse
Dr. Marcelle Cassar, OASI’s Director, attributes the rise to a complex mix of factors. “The pandemic has exacerbated existing issues,” she says, “with increased stress, isolation, and unemployment driving some to seek solace in drugs.” But it’s not just the pandemic. The rise of new, potent substances, like synthetic cannabinoids, is also playing a role. “These drugs are cheap, easily accessible, and highly addictive,” Dr. Cassar warns.
the stigma surrounding drug abuse in Malta is evolving. While it’s still a challenge, OASI notes a growing openness among users and their families to seek help. “We’re seeing more people coming forward, which is a positive sign,” says Dr. Cassar. “But it also underscores the severity of the problem.”
OASI: On the Frontlines of Malta’s Drug War
OASI is at the forefront of Malta’s battle against drug abuse. The foundation runs a 24/7 helpline, offers counseling services, and operates a residential rehabilitation centre in Siġġiewi. Their work is critical, but it’s also challenging. “We’re seeing more complex cases,” says Dr. Cassar, “and our resources are stretched thin.”
Despite the challenges, OASI remains undeterred. The foundation is calling for increased funding, better access to rehabilitation services, and more community awareness. “We need to tackle drug abuse head-on,” says Dr. Cassar. “It’s a complex issue, but with the right support and resources, we can turn the tide.”
