Role of Social Workers in Preventing and Managing Substance Abuse among Youth in Leh, Ladakh: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Substance abuse has become a major public health and social concern, particularly among young people. In the Union Territory of Ladakh, rapid socio-economic changes, urbanization, tourism, unemployment, and peer influence have contributed to increasing substance use. This study examines the role of social workers in addressing substance abuse in Leh, Ladakh, with a focus on prevention, counselling, rehabilitation, community awareness, and follow-up services. A descriptive qualitative research design was adopted. Primary data were collected through purposive sampling from ten respondents receiving treatment at the Psychiatric Department of Sonam Norboo Memorial (SNM) Hospital and the Drug De-addiction Centre, Leh. Data were gathered through interviews, field observations, and interactions with social workers, while institutional records and published literature were used as secondary sources. The findings reveal that young adults aged 19–24 years are the most affected group, with peer pressure and curiosity identified as the primary factors contributing to substance use. Social workers play a vital role in psychosocial counselling, family intervention, rehabilitation, relapse prevention, and community awareness. However, inadequate rehabilitation facilities, social stigma, and limited public awareness remain major challenges. The study recommends strengthening community-based prevention programmes, expanding rehabilitation services, and enhancing the role of professional social workers through a multidisciplinary approach.