In Uttarakhand, there has been a notable increase in cases of drug and alcohol addiction in recent years. A research article by Doctors at Doon Govt. Medical College, Dehradun reveals that a significant proportion of individuals (46.8%) begin substance abuse after the age of 18, with alcohol being the most commonly abused substance, followed by tobacco, opioids, cannabis, ecstasy, crystal, and morphine. The study found that approximately two-thirds of participants (67.5%) were consuming drugs daily. The most common substance abused was ‘alcohol’ (74%), followed by ‘tobacco’, primarily by ‘smoking’ (71.4%), then ‘opioids’ (46.8%), and ‘cannabis’ (40.3%). Three lesser common substances/drugs ever consumed by study participants were: ‘amphetamines’ (15.6%), ‘hallucinogens’ (14.9%), and ‘sedatives/sleeping pills’ (11.0%).

Unlike most de-addiction centres, Maanavta believes in a hand-holding approach. Contrary to traditional methods like Cold Turkey, where the substance to which the patient is addicted is abruptly taken away without any gradual reduction, Maanavta believes in adopting a more empathetic methodology using supportive and nurturing treatment modalities.

Each patient receives a personalised treatment plan tailored to their specific condition and history. An array of supportive therapies, either singularly or in combination, is offered, with the overarching objective of not only providing treatment but also instilling a sense of hope and empowerment in patients to reclaim their lives.

The Uttarakhand government has taken several significant initiatives to address the issue of addiction and promote de-addiction across the state. Some of the well-known initiatives include:

• Navjeevan Kendra (Rehabilitation Centers)
• Nasha Mukti Abhiyan (Addiction Eradication Campaign)
• De-Addiction Helpline
• Awareness Programs
• Collaboration with NGOs