Barbados is confronting a concerning evolution in its drug landscape as the National Council on Substance Abuse (NCSA) reports a gradual but significant diversification beyond traditional substances. While marijuana, tobacco, alcohol, and cocaine remain the predominant choices among Barbadians, new psychoactive compounds have emerged on the island between 2023 and 2025, signaling a shift in consumption patterns.
Troy Wickham, Deputy Manager of the NCSA, revealed during Drug Awareness Month that the council’s surveillance has identified several novel substances entering the local market. These include MDMA (commonly known as ecstasy), methamphetamine, synthetic cannabinoids (specifically MDMB4en PINACA and 4-Fluoro MDMB Butica), and semi-synthetic cannabinoids like hexahydrocannabinol.
The proliferation of these substances transcends statistical data, manifesting in increased treatment facility admissions. Young males under 40 continue to dominate both treatment referrals and encounters with the criminal justice system related to substance abuse. Wickham noted a surge in outreach from educational institutions, families, and communities seeking intervention services during the awareness month, ranging from educational sessions to counseling and rehabilitation.
Despite the NCSA offering free counseling services to all citizens, prevention efforts face substantial challenges. Social stigma surrounding substance abuse discourages early intervention, compounded by an apparent normalization of marijuana use despite its illegal status in Barbados. Wickham expressed particular concern about open marijuana consumption across age groups and genders in public spaces, describing it as a worrying trend toward normalization.
The deputy manager urged heightened vigilance among parents, guardians, and educators, emphasizing the importance of recognizing behavioral and physical indicators of substance use. Warning signs include erratic behavior, aggression, memory impairment, anxiety, and changes in social circles. Physical evidence may include drug-branded clothing, vaping devices, and small zip-lock bags.
Wickham stressed that parental warmth and active involvement constitute crucial protective factors, underscoring that strong familial relationships play a pivotal role in prevention and early intervention strategies.