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Breaking the “Ice”: From Highs to Healing. A Family Case Report on Severe Methamphetamine Use Disorder

Nikki Rose AGCAOILI

Methamphetamine (“shabu/ice”) use disorder remains a major public health and primary care challenge in the Philippines, commonly linked with poverty, stigma, disrupted family systems, and legal consequences. In rural settings, patients frequently enter care through crisis events rather than early screening, with coexisting non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and psychosocial distress often under-recognized. Family physicians are uniquely positioned to provide continuity, coordinate intersectoral support, and facilitate family healing during rehabilitation and community reintegration.