Currently, the number of drug users/abusers in our country, based on extrapolated data, is estimated at around 70-80 thousand.
The psychoactive substances most commonly used in our country are cannabis products (around 65%); opiate users, mainly heroin, constitute 20-25% (a considerable portion of which is administered intravenously, posing a potential threat for blood-borne diseases); around 10% are cocaine users, etc. Recent observations and findings indicate an increase in preferences for synthetic substances known as club drugs (especially amphetamine-type stimulants), etc. (source: Ministry of Health of Albania website)
From observations and daily work in the field by the staff of Teen Challenge Albania with individuals addicted to drugs, alcohol, tobacco, etc., we notice that a majority of them have started using narcotic substances in their childhood around the age of 12-14 years old.
The factors that have led to this increase in the number of users are: social problems within families, parental divorce, domestic violence, lack of parental care, curiosity, association with older drug users, dropping out of school, unemployment, etc. Currently, in our ongoing work at the drug addiction rehabilitation center in Tirana, we work with individuals who want to change their behavior towards all substances such as drugs, alcohol, tobacco, etc. Our work is done in collaboration with specialist toxicologist doctors at the “Mother Teresa” hospital center in Tirana and with the drug prevention and education center “Aksion Plus” in Tirana.
We believe that together we can bring hope and rebuild shattered lives.
Teen Challenge Albania
The Rehabilitation Center STREHA
September 2021
ILLUSTRATIVE PHOTO 
ILLUSTRATIVE PHOTO