In the heart of Centro Habana, within the troubled neighborhood of Colón, a young man courageously shared his harrowing journey with drugs. Addressing his community directly, he bared his soul, acknowledging the pain and damage inflicted on his family. "My father would roam the streets at night searching for me, even paying off my debts. I sold everything—food, the television, my clothes, my phone—never considering the consequences, only my urge to consume," he confessed in a report from the Cuban Television News System.
This raw admission unveiled a harsh truth often masked by official statistics and government rhetoric. His voice pierced through the silence during a community discussion organized by the local Mental Health Center, which saw participation from various ministry specialists. Beyond the official discourse, it was his personal tragedy that struck a chord: a life ravaged by addiction.
"One day, everything was gone. No food, no fan to sleep under. My father, now 70 years old, lies bedridden because of me. That was my rock bottom. He can't even hug me anymore," he lamented. His story served not just as a confession, but as an urgent warning to other young people: "Don't believe you have to try everything. That mindset cost me everything. If you're struggling with addiction, seek help. Professionals are there for you."
Dr. Alejandro García, head of Mental Health in the municipality, highlighted a shift in Cuba's drug crisis. The problem now extends beyond marijuana and alcohol to include dangerous synthetic substances, colloquially known as "chemicals," which leave lasting damage.
"We're seeing severe intoxications in teenagers aged 14 to 17. These substances are unregulated, highly toxic, and cause permanent harm," Dr. García explained.
Cuba is currently facing a silent crisis: youth ensnared by drugs, families torn apart, and a state response that often prioritizes control over compassion. In 2024, another young Cuban shared his ordeal battling an intense addiction to "chemicals," a low-cost synthetic drug surging in popularity among teens. He reportedly consumed up to 58 doses a day, leading to two heart attacks and a stroke. His narrative, captured by Periódico 26, reveals neglect, physical decline, and easy access to drugs even while confined at home.
In the wake of this revelation, other rehabilitating youths shared their stories of how the substance devastated their lives, causing them to lose control over their bodies and relationships. Many turned to treatment after suicide attempts or severe physical crises. With growing societal pressure, the Cuban regime has finally acknowledged the issue.
Official statements from Miguel Díaz-Canel admitted to the drug consumption surge in Havana. However, the government's response remains primarily repressive, focusing on increased surveillance, operations, and the creation of the National Drug Observatory.
Alarmingly, newer and more toxic versions of "chemicals" have emerged, made with formaldehyde and veterinary anesthetics. These have caused seizures, severe neurological alterations, and even deaths. Despite arrests and drug seizures in Havana neighborhoods, these substances remain accessible, with their consumption escalating unchecked.
Understanding Cuba's Drug Crisis
What challenges do young Cubans face with drug addiction?
Young Cubans grapple with easy access to synthetic drugs, societal pressures, and often insufficient support systems, leading to severe health and emotional issues.
How is the Cuban government responding to the drug problem?
The government's response is largely focused on enforcement through increased surveillance and operations, rather than addressing the root causes and offering rehabilitation and support.
What are "chemicals" in the context of Cuba's drug issue?
"Chemicals" refer to synthetic drugs, often unregulated and highly toxic, that have become increasingly popular among Cuban youth, leading to serious health consequences.