Lebanon’s recovering drug addicts are grappling with the psychological and physical toll of ongoing conflict. As the Israel-Hezbollah war escalates, many fear losing access to vital treatment, pushing some to consider leaving the country altogether.
Key Takeaways
- The ongoing conflict in Lebanon has exacerbated the struggles of recovering drug addicts.
- Access to treatment is threatened by the war, leading to increased anxiety among patients.
- Many recovering addicts are contemplating emigration as a solution to their challenges.
The Struggle for Recovery
In a clean, sunlit room at Reset Clinics, Ali, a 33-year-old recovering addict, reflects on his journey. Once ensnared by heroin for 15 years, his path to recovery began after the outbreak of the Israel-Hezbollah war in October 2023.
At Reset Clinics, Ali receives opioid substitution treatment, which includes buprenorphine, a medication that alleviates withdrawal symptoms and cravings. However, the war has disrupted his access to this crucial treatment, heightening his anxiety about securing his medication amidst the chaos.
The Impact of War on Treatment Access
- Regulated Sales: Buprenorphine is only legally available in government hospitals, making access precarious during wartime.
- Fear of Shortages: Patients like Ali and Issa express deep concern over potential shortages of their medication due to the ongoing conflict.
- Black Market Risks: The temptation to resort to the black market for medication poses legal risks and moral dilemmas for many.
Daily Life in a War Zone
Living in Dahiyeh, a suburb of Beirut heavily impacted by the war, both Ali and Issa face daily challenges. Evacuations and bombings disrupt their routines, forcing them to ration their medication and cope with heightened stress levels.
Issa recounts the fear of leaving his home during airstrikes, compounded by worries about accessing his medication. The psychological toll of living in a war zone has led to increased dosages for many recovering addicts, as they struggle to manage their anxiety and cravings.
The Broader Context of Addiction in Lebanon
The last comprehensive statistics on drug use in Lebanon date back to 2017, revealing a significant increase in arrests related to substance use. However, the ongoing conflict has likely exacerbated the situation, with many rehabilitation centers reporting a surge in patients seeking help.
- Stigma and Employment: Societal stigma against drug users complicates recovery efforts, making it difficult for individuals to reintegrate into society and find employment.
- Government Priorities: The Lebanese government faces numerous challenges, leaving addiction recovery as a low priority amidst the ongoing crisis.
A Glimpse into the Future
For many recovering addicts, the prospect of a stable future in Lebanon seems bleak. Ali dreams of moving to Canada to escape the turmoil, expressing a sense of hopelessness about the country’s ability to recover.
"I wish only the best for my country, but what’s happened is like a drop in the ocean of what’s yet to come. This country is impossible to fix," he laments.
As the war continues to unfold, the resilience of Lebanon’s recovering drug addicts is tested, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive support and treatment options in the face of ongoing adversity.
Sources
- Lebanon’s Recovering Drug Addicts Struggle With the Aftermath of War – New Lines Magazine, New Lines Magazine.
