Mental Health Center: Complex Addictions & Synthetic Substances
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Rising Addiction Concerns in Latvia: New Substances, Digital influence, and Systemic Challenges
Table of Contents
The addiction landscape in Latvia is becoming increasingly complex. The use of synthetic substances is growing, digitization introduces new types of addictions, and medical institutions are facing greater pressure and more elegant diagnostic challenges.These concerns were evaluated at a recent conference on addiction to psychiatry, as reported by the National mental Health Center (NPVC).
Key Trends in Latvian Addiction
As reported by LETA, the conference analyzed current issues in psychiatry, emphasizing the spread of new psychoactive substances, the diagnosis of comorbid conditions, screening tools, the role of general practitioners (GPs), and the need for improved public attitudes.
The NPVC stresses that modern addiction treatment requires a multidisciplinary team approach, involving cooperation between GPs, psychologists, social workers, and public health professionals. It’s no longer solely the domain of narcologists or psychiatrists.
The Rise of Digital and “Less Harmful” Substances
Public health specialist Martins Zavackis presented data on addictive substance use in Latvia, with a particular focus on young people’s habits and changing public perceptions. While alcohol and traditional drug rates remain relatively stable, the use of electronic cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and other substances marketed as ”less harmful” is rapidly increasing among adolescents, especially girls. The age of first use is also decreasing, often occurring before the age of 13.
This trend is fueled by attractive packaging,appealing flavors,and targeted advertising on digital platforms. The lack of long-term data on the effects of these substances is a major concern, and the public health system needs to respond proactively before these risks become unmanageable.
The Threat of New Synthetic Substances
Astrid Stirna,Head of the NPVC’s Narcological Assistance Service,highlighted the growing distribution of new synthetic substances,particularly opioids from the Nitazene group,within Latvian drug supplies. These substances are 10 to 20 times more potent than Fentanyl, and their use often occurs without knowledge of the substance’s composition, considerably increasing the risk of overdose and death.
The profile of drug users is also changing. Users are getting younger, more diverse, and frequently experience multiple comorbidities – mental disorders, somatic diseases, and social disintegration. Traditional treatment approaches are often inadequate in these complex cases.
Systemic Challenges and Calls for Action
Stirna argued that current efforts are