“GCW Srinagar Organizes Awareness Programme on Drug Abuse: Highlighting Psycho-Social and Legal Aspects”

Srinagar 8 April: Department of Psychology at Govt. College for Women in MA Road, Srinagar organized an awareness programme on Drug abuse: Psycho-Social and Legal Aspects. The event was held in the conference hall of the college and moderated by Safa Riyaz and Bazila Riyaz, students of the department who provided a general idea about drug abuse and informed the audience about Sukoon, a mental health helpline launched by the divisional administration of Kashmir.

The programme began with a welcome address by Dr. Irfat Ara, Head Department of Psychology, who formally welcomed the Guest Speaker, Mr. Syed Mujtaba (Lawyer at Child Guidance & Well-Being Center (CGWC) IMHANS-K), and all the dignitaries. Dr. Ara spoke about the problems related to drug abuse and how the field of psychology can help in combating this menace. The inaugural address was given by the Principal of the College, Prof. (Dr.) Ruhi Jan Kanth, who highlighted the negative impact of drug abuse on the youth and appreciated the Department for organizing such a programme.

Mr. Syed Mujtaba, the guest speaker, presented an insightful talk on the Psycho-Social causes of substance abuse and spoke about the different ways in which we can fight this danger in society. He spoke about the relation between drug abuse and mental health and the importance of family, community, etc. in fighting this threat. He also discussed the legal aspects related to the issue. The lecture was followed by an interactive session where the students asked questions and interacted with the speaker.

The students from the Department also spoke on the topic of drug abuse and addiction in Kashmir. Zainab spoke about drug addiction in general, followed by Aayat who presented the main reasons why the youth fall prey to drug addiction. Riwa concluded the speeches by discussing the preventive measures and treatment plans that are available in our society. A documentary was also shown to explain the harmful effects and consequences of drug abuse.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks presented by Dr. Eshrat Ara. The programme was a success and provided valuable insights on the psycho-social and legal aspects of drug abuse. It emphasized the importance of creating awareness about the issue and taking steps to combat it.