Fiji is at a critical point in its fight against drug abuse, with warnings that the situation could soon deteriorate further. This pressing issue is explored in “You Again,” a recent book by Adi Tulia Nacola, which sheds light on the country’s growing drug epidemic and the stigma associated with addiction.
Launched at the Fiji Museum, Nacola’s book offers a stark examination of the current state of drug addiction in Fiji through a fictional narrative that centers on individuals struggling with drug and alcohol dependency. Nacola, in her research, uncovered disturbing statistics indicating that children as young as ten are becoming involved in illegal drug activities.
These findings highlight a burgeoning crisis that, according to Nacola, could become increasingly difficult to manage if not promptly addressed. “I wrote this for anyone willing to educate themselves,” she remarked, noting that the book features stories from individuals overcoming addiction and the families of addicts.
Nacola specified that “You Again” was crafted with the unique Fijian social context in mind, aiming to challenge and change the prevailing stigma surrounding addiction. She expressed hope that the community could collaboratively manage this issue. “I started writing this journey in September of last year. I wanted to encourage the community, especially since we are all aware of the shocking drug epidemic. This situation is leaving all of us confused or worried.”
Emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding, Nacola called for collective community efforts to address the addiction crisis. “We need to eliminate the stigma associated with addiction. Let’s work together as a community, as a family, to share our stories and experiences and assist those in darkness to find light.”
The book’s editor, Stephanie Datt, backed Nacola’s initiative, underlining that the rising drug crisis is increasingly affecting younger individuals, with children being exploited as drug carriers. She stressed the necessity for urgent and open discussions within communities to combat the effects of drug abuse. “You Again is going to have such a fantastic ripple effect, and we fully support it,” Datt expressed. “The age is getting younger, and our children are being used as mules and paddlers in these operations. If there is any time to begin conversations with communities and youth, it is now.”
Datt indicated that they would continue documenting stories since every societal problem is interconnected, and they aim to address all issues impacting the community.