The gravity of Cuba's drug addiction crisis is so severe that even the official media can no longer hide it. This week, Periódico 26 from Las Tunas shared a harrowing account of a young man who began his addiction with pills like carbamazepine and tramadol, moved to marijuana, and is now hooked on a notorious synthetic drug known as "químico." This drug, available in paper form, is alarmingly cheaper than a soda on the island. The young man, who has recently embarked on a rehabilitation journey and has been clean for just 15 days, shared his chilling story.
He revealed that his descent into drug use began through a romantic relationship with a 13-year-old girl already addicted to pills. To be with her, he started using too. They would get high before attending secondary school. Disturbingly, he noted that his situation is far from unique. "The number of young kids using 'químico' in Las Tunas is incredibly high," he stated, acknowledging that those addicted are willing to do anything for a piece of the paper drug.
The Dire Consequences of Drug Abuse
The young man's addiction has led to severe health complications, including two cardiac arrests at ages 14 and 16, which he attributes to mixing pills. At 18, he suffered a stroke that left half of his body paralyzed, and doctors suspect he might have schizophrenia, though no professional has yet linked his health issues to his drug use. The physical toll is evident: his teeth are worn down, his intellectual capacity diminished, and his body significantly deteriorated. He also faces family conflicts due to his continuous theft of money to fund his addiction, with each paper costing between 150 and 300 Cuban pesos. At his worst, he consumed an average of 57-58 papers a day, financed by stealing from his home and selling clothing sent from abroad.
The Struggle to Break Free
Currently, he is determined to quit "químico" because of its severe withdrawal symptoms, but the journey is challenging. Before seeking medical help for detoxification, he consumed 14 papers in one go and only then decided he was ready to quit. The detox process has been tough; even while confined to his home, he managed to acquire drugs through his bedroom window by trading clothes for them.
However, he has expressed to two journalists his determination to overcome his addiction, emphasizing his desire to share his story as a warning. He has witnessed children as young as 12 purchasing "químico" and observed the erratic behavior of a drunk person after using it. He is aware of both boys and girls getting involved, and he warns the psychiatrist treating him that they have a long road ahead in tackling this crisis.