Malta’s Drug Crisis: Over 6,000 Seek Help as OASI Warns of Rising Abuse

In the heart of Malta, at the bustling St. Vincent de Paul Street in Birkirkara, the OASI Foundation’s office has seen an rare influx of visitors this year. The reason? A rising tide of drug abuse that’s sweeping across the island nation.

6,000 and Counting

Over 6,000 individuals have sought help from OASI in the first nine months of 2022, a staggering 30% increase from the same period last year. This alarming figure is a stark reminder of the growing drug problem in Malta, with cannabis, cocaine, and synthetic drugs being the most commonly abused substances.

Why the Spike?

The pandemic has been a catalyst for this surge, according to OASI’s clinical psychologist, Dr. Maria Galea. “The lockdowns, the stress, the isolation – all these factors have contributed to an increase in drug use,” she explains. The economic downturn has also played a role, with job losses and financial strain pushing some over the edge.

But it’s not just the pandemic. Dr. Galea points to a more insidious trend – the normalization of drug use among young people. “We’re seeing more teens and young adults experimenting with drugs. They see it as a way to cope with stress, to fit in, or just for fun.”

OASI: A Lifeline in the Storm

OASI, which stands for ‘Overcoming Addiction through Support and Intervention’, has been on the frontlines of this battle for over two decades. Their services range from counseling and therapy to rehabilitation programs and aftercare support. They’ve expanded their reach, too, with outreach programs in schools and communities, and even a helpline for those who can’t make it to their offices.

“We’re not just treating the symptoms,” says Dr. Galea. “We’re addressing the root causes of addiction – the mental health issues, the traumas, the social factors. And we’re doing it one person at a time.”

But OASI is sounding the alarm. With resources stretched thin and demand soaring, they’re warning that the situation could spiral out of control if more isn’t done.

“We need more funding, more resources, more awareness,” says Dr. Galea. “We need the government, the community, everyone to come together and say, ‘Enough is enough. Let’s tackle this problem head-on.’ Because if we don’t, we’re going to lose a generation to addiction.”