\n<\/p>\n
While Wei Qiang was placed under MSF’s scheme, etomidate abusers above 21 are referred to the Institute of Mental Health\u2019s National Addictions Management Service (NAMS).<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The rehabilitation process begins with assessing the severity of use. Heavy users undergo a six-month programme \u2013 three months at NAMS and three more with social service agencies. Light users complete a three-month programme \u2013 first month at NAMS and two more with the agencies.<\/p>\n
Relapse occurs in a “handful” of severe cases, often detected when youths self-disclose, parents notice signs, or during enforcement checks, said Dr Cheok.<\/p>\n
But Wei Qiang is steadfast in his belief that he would not relapse.<\/p>\n
“The chance of that happening is close to zero,” he said. “Right now, I’m happy with what I have and I’m satisfied with what I’m doing.”<\/p>\n
He has goals to achieve, such as staying on track and being a “good guy”. He wants to focus on his studies and spend time with his family.<\/p>\n
“Just refrain from reoffending after knowing how harmful it is \u2026 Sometimes it’s not only harmful to my health, but people around me,” he said.<\/p>\n
“I’ve already made the mistake once, I know what it’s going to be like. I don’t want to make the same mistake. It’s honestly not worth it at all.”<\/p>\n
Case workers are heartened when youths change, said Mr Lowe, noting that “any form of change is not easy”.<\/p>\n
Asked how he feels when youths like Wei Qiang finish their rehabilitation, he smiled. He said he would miss some of them, and some would linger in his mind.<\/p>\n
“But I would say that the ones that have really done their job to complete their rehabilitation with us, their stories continue to live on within us,” he added.<\/p>\n
“(We) pass their experience on to the next youth that we meet.”<\/p>\n
Wei Qiang\u2019s parting words were simple. If he missed Mr Lowe or needed his advice, he could just text him.<\/p>\n
But both agreed that they hoped never to meet again in the same setting.<\/p>\n
“We can meet outside like friends,” the teen said to Mr Lowe. “Not (as) case worker or client.”<\/p>\n
Mr Lowe wished him well. “I always say this to all of my youths: I hope to see you, but never in my centre again.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n