Latest news with #YousefAlDheebAlKetbi
Time of India
16 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
UAE teens are trying this ‘harmless' hack for a quick high, and parents don't even know the harm
Despite the UAE 's strict laws and zero-tolerance policy on drug use, a worrying new trend is emerging among teenagers: the misuse of household products like bleach, air fresheners, and aerosol sprays in search of so-called 'safe highs.' Experts say this form of non-traditional substance abuse, often glamorised on social media, poses serious health risks and challenges for early intervention. Yousef Al Dheeb Al Ketbi, CEO of the National Rehabilitation Centre ( NRC ), pointed out that the bigger threat is that many teens do not view using this as drug use, and it's making early detection more difficult for parents and teachers, as told to Khaleej Times. Also Read: How Dubai's 20 minute city plans to keep you walking; even in 45°C heat by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Play War Thunder now for free War Thunder Play Now Undo He explained that the misuse of everyday substances, often promoted on social media, poses serious health risks, including seizures, permanent brain damage, heart failure, and even sudden death. 'Inhaling toxic substances can lead to severe outcomes with little or no warning signs,' Al Ketbi warned. Live Events He noted that these behaviors are often fueled by peer pressure, low self-esteem, and the search for online validation. With teens usually unaware of the dangers, simple experimentation has become an addiction. Al Ketbi said the NRC's prevention strategy is now more focused on behavioural understanding. 'We don't only tell teens what not to do, we explain why, using language they relate to,' he said. Also Read: Defeat the UAE heatwave with these 10 cool as ice funwaves that will keep you thrilled The centre monitors harmful social media trends and responds quickly with expert-led campaigns, school programmes, and digital content. Another growing concern is early mobile phone access. Teens who own phones from a young age are at greater risk of exposure to drug dealers or harmful online groups. In response, the NRC includes digital safety training in its outreach efforts, teaching teens how to block, report, and avoid suspicious contacts. To strengthen prevention efforts in schools, the NRC has trained over 60 teachers in 2025 to detect early signs of risky behaviour and intervene effectively. These programmes are designed to go beyond traditional lectures, using storytelling and peer discussions to connect with students. Also Read: China's first gaming GPU struggles to match 2012 graphics card, yet delivers a strong strategic message The centre also works closely with parents, encouraging them to keep open lines of communication with their children. 'Seeking help is not a weakness—it's a form of protection,' said Al Ketbi. He stressed that prevention must begin early, with a focus on emotional resilience, critical thinking, and mental health awareness. 'When young people feel supported and understood, they are less likely to seek harmful ways to cope,' he said. AlKetbi concluded by calling for a nationwide effort to reduce stigma and open conversations about drug use and mental wellbeing.
Khaleej Times
20 hours ago
- Health
- Khaleej Times
UAE: More teens inhaling bleach, air sprays for social media, 'safe highs'
As the UAE observes World Drug Day, experts highlight a growing concern: the rise of non-traditional drug use among teenagers. While traditional substances remain a threat, young people are increasingly exposed to alternative forms of intoxication — often promoted online as 'safe' or 'legal". From misuse of prescription drugs to inhaling household products, the line between experimentation and addiction is becoming dangerously blurry. What makes this especially worrying is how quickly these behaviours spread — often driven by viral content and peer pressure online. Speaking to Khaleej Times, Yousef Al Dheeb AlKetbi, CEO of the National Rehabilitation Centre (NRC), highlighted that although the risks have changed, awareness and response mechanisms have also improved. 'What is reassuring is the growing awareness among schools, parents, and policymakers. The focus is no longer on reaction, but on prevention. Early interventions, open dialogues, and tailored education contribute to building a more aware and vigilant generation than ever before,' he said. New threats AlKetbi highlighted that one of the most worrying trends is the spread of dangerous behaviours on social media, such as inhaling air fresheners, bleach, or aerosol sprays as supposed 'safe highs". These actions might look harmless or funny in short videos, but their effects are far from it. 'Inhaling toxic substances can lead to seizures, heart failure, or even sudden death, with little to no warning signs. The damage to the brain and nervous system can be permanent,' he noted. Psychologically, such behavior often indicates deeper issues, such as peer pressure, low self-esteem, or a desire for online validation. Because teens usually do not see these acts as 'drug use", early detection becomes even more challenging. A behavioral approach to prevention The NRC's response focuses on understanding teen behavior and communicating in ways that resonate with young people. What makes our approach effective is that it's based on behavioral insights. We don't only tell teens what not to do — we explain why, using language they understand. The goal is to replace risky curiosity with informed decision-making,' AlKetbi said. He emphasised that the centre actively monitors social media trends and responds quickly when harmful ones appear. Its strategy involves launching expert-led campaigns, creating relevant social media content, and working with schools and influencers. Digital risks and mobile exposure Another modern concern is early access to mobile phones. Many teens obtain personal numbers at a young age, opening the door to potential contact with drug dealers or harmful online communities. 'Early mobile phone use gives teens a level of independence that can be empowering — but also risky,' AlKetbi cautioned. To counter this, the NRC incorporates digital safety training into its school and community programmes. Teens are taught how to spot suspicious contacts, block harmful numbers, and report inappropriate messages. These lessons are delivered through workshops, peer discussions, and short-form digital content that teens can relate to. Empowering community The NRC also supports parents and educators in navigating this fast-changing landscape. The centre emphasises that conversations about drugs must now include discussions about online chat groups, social media apps, and unsupervised digital interactions. 'Seeking help is not a weakness, it's a form of protection,' said AlKetbi. To strengthen frontline support, the NRC has launched specialised training programmes for teachers. In 2025 alone, over 60 educators received training in recognising the early signs of drug use, conducting case assessments, and developing intervention plans. A follow-up system guarantees ongoing improvement and real-world impact in the classroom. AlKetbi emphasised that true prevention starts before risky behaviors emerge. The NRC recommends beginning with early education on emotional resilience, stress management, peer resistance, and communication skills. 'Emotional intelligence and critical thinking are just as important as knowing the facts about drugs,' he said. 'When young people feel supported, understood, and resilient, the urge to seek out harmful coping mechanisms is reduced,' he added. At home, parents are encouraged to maintain open, non-judgmental communication. Even without formal training, their presence and willingness to engage can serve as a powerful shield against risky behavior. In schools, prevention efforts go beyond traditional lectures. Through storytelling, peer-led discussions, and interactive formats, NRC-backed programmes aim to resonate deeply with youth. At a broader level, AlKetbi called for a national culture that embraces difficult conversations and prioritises mental wellbeing. 'We need a society that doesn't shy away from talking about drugs or mental health. Reducing stigma, sharing real recovery stories, and encouraging early intervention are all essential,' he said.
