Surge in Response: GMC Anantnag’s ATF Battles Substance Abuse with Record OPD Consultations

By Sameer Ahmad

Anantnag: The concerning rise in substance abuse cases in South Kashmir has prompted a glimmer of hope as more individuals turn to the Addiction  Treatment Facility (ATF) at GMC Anantnag. A recent survey conducted by the Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences Kashmir revealed that drug abuse in Kashmir exceeds 2%. This survey covered 10 districts in Kashmir, shedding light on the prevalence of substance abuse and related factors.

Doctors at GMC Anantnag report a substantial increase in patients seeking assistance for substance abuse issues in a relatively short period, emphasizing that this is just the tip of the iceberg.

Over the last 11 months, GMC Anantnag has registered more than 1000 new patients at ATF. In 2023, until September, over 15,000 OPD consultations were provided to such patients, marking a significant rise compared to previous years.

The ATF commenced psychotherapeutic counseling at GMC Anantnag last year, conducting more than 1000 counseling sessions. From January 2023 to September this year, GMC Anantnag administered over 1518 OPD psychotherapeutic consultations, significantly surpassing the previous year’s figures.

Dr. Mansoor Ahmad Dar, Head of the Psychiatry Department at GMC Anantnag, acknowledges the positive response to ATF but stresses the enormity of the drug abuse issue. He highlights that numerous agencies are working comprehensively to combat drug abuse, and there’s room for even greater progress. Dr. Dar encourages the community to support individuals with substance abuse problems in seeking treatment.

This progress at GMC Anantnag’s ATF offers a promising ray of hope in the ongoing battle against substance abuse in the region.