THE NEXT STEP
While Wei Qiang was placed under MSF’s scheme, etomidate abusers above 21 are referred to the Institute of Mental Health’s National Addictions Management Service (NAMS).
Dr Christopher Cheok, NAMS’ chief, estimated that roughly two-thirds of youths in the mandatory programme at NAMS are recreational etomidate abusers, and a third are addicts.
Like Wei Qiang, many start out of curiosity or peer influence; some others use drugs to cope with deeper stresses like adverse childhood experiences or academic pressures.
The mandatory programme had been quite well received, said Dr Cheok, although a few youths had complaints about its length and struggled with attending weekly sessions.
The rehabilitation process begins with assessing the severity of use. Heavy users undergo a six-month programme – three months at NAMS and three more with social service agencies. Light users complete a three-month programme – first month at NAMS and two more with the agencies.
Relapse occurs in a “handful” of severe cases, often detected when youths self-disclose, parents notice signs, or during enforcement checks, said Dr Cheok.
But Wei Qiang is steadfast in his belief that he would not relapse.
