Acting Medical Superintendent of Saint Giles Hospital, Doctor Sheetal Singh has highlighted concerns about increasing drug use among youths, warning that it could affect Fiji’s future workforce, and reduce the number of graduates entering different professions in the coming years.
It has been revealed that the number of patients going to Saint Giles Hospital for drug related issues has risen from an average of one to two cases per day in 2021 to at least eight cases per day in 2025.
While speaking during the Fiji Medical Association Mini Conference, Doctor Singh says Fiji cannot effectively deal with rising drug abuse, without also addressing mental health issues affecting people, especially the young people.
Dr Singh says many people using drugs such as methamphetamine are often dealing with trauma, bullying, stress, depression, rejection or other personal struggles.
She stressed that drug addiction should not only be treated as a criminal issue as many people need understanding, support and rehabilitation instead of judgement.
Dr Singh says healthcare workers should start identifying mental health symptoms early, as untreated anxiety, depression and stress can lead people towards substance abuse.
She says mental health and medical conditions such as diabetes and hypertension are closely linked, as people struggling mentally are less likely to follow treatment plans, maintain healthy lifestyles or attend clinics regularly.
Dr Singh says doctors and healthcare workers should include simple mental health screening questions when checking patients for illnesses, such as diabetes and hypertension.
She is also encouraging medical professionals to approach people battling addiction with empathy rather than criticism.
She says many drug users avoid seeking help because of stigma and fear of being judged.
The psychiatrist also calls for stronger rehabilitation support within communities and health facilities, saying rehabilitation is not only about buildings, but also about listening, counselling and family support.
Dr Singh says hospitals alone cannot fight the growing drug problem and all health professionals and communities need to work together.
