Two years on, Mosul addiction unit continues rehabilitation efforts as drug use rises

MOSUL – Two years after opening Nineveh’s first dedicated drug rehabilitation unit, the Al-Shifa Hospital in Mosul continues to admit patients for addiction treatment, focusing largely on young adults between the ages of 19 and 35.

Established in July 2023 in response to growing drug abuse in the region, the center offers 30 inpatient beds across 15 fully furnished rooms and provides access to gardens, a gym, and private amenities. Treatment is free and overseen by a staff of specialized psychiatric and social work professionals.

“We receive cases either voluntarily or through court referrals, which allows drug users to seek treatment instead of incarceration,” said Dr. Mohammed Nazem, director of Al-Shifa Hospital. Treatment typically lasts one to three months, depending on medical evaluations, he said.

A 29-year-old patient currently undergoing treatment told 964media he began using drugs 12 years ago, initially with Captagon before progressing to other substances. “Ten days ago, I turned myself in to the narcotics police, and they referred me to the hospital,” he said. “Here, we’re treated with respect by staff and even the police.” He described a daily routine involving medication, meals, exercise, and therapy sessions.

Dr. Mohammed Kareem, who heads the addiction unit, said all patients undergo full evaluations upon arrival to identify the drugs used and are continuously monitored during withdrawal. “We apply the 12-step model, starting with acknowledgment of addiction, to help build self-awareness and motivation for recovery,” he said.

The center is currently treating three patients — two voluntary and one court-referred. Most cases involve pill addiction, and some patients arrive in depressive states or with suicidal ideation, Kareem said. To support emotional regulation, the unit has introduced physical outlets such as a punching bag.

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