Athens: Drug Hotspots Shift, 'Sisa' Use Rises

Drug hotspots in Athens are shifting but not disappearing, according to a report by APE-MPE. Drug use, particularly 'sisa,' is increasing in areas like Metaxourgeio and around OSE.

Angeliki, a drug user, describes the daily life of addiction and the ease of finding substances. Sotiris Papadopoulos from OKANA points out that the hotspots are moving short distances in the city center.

Data from OKANA and EMCDDA show increased drug use, homelessness, and mental health problems among users. The use of 'sisa' is linked to violent incidents. Many users end up on the streets after family breakdowns.

Despite the difficulties, there are stories of recovery. Treatment programs like KETHEA are successful with long-term support.