Punjabi Pain and the Silence of Addiction | Vancouver News

In rural Punjab, dried poppy husk—called doda—is widely used for pain relief and endurance, even if it’s illegal, and its addictive potential carries heavy stigma. As Punjabi communities grow in places like Surrey, BC, this cultural practice meets new pressures: immigration stress, language barriers, discrimination, and isolation push vulnerable newcomers toward substance use. Alcohol, deeply woven into celebrations, often masks problematic use, while women face extra stigma and are less likely to seek help. Punjabi students, battling academic and financial strain, are especially at risk—overdose deaths are rising, though data by immigration status is scarce. Recovery isn’t just quitting—it’s confronting deep emotional wounds. Breaking the silence remains the hardest, but most vital, step. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/ad6b5b9b18644dff