Srinagar, June 26: Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), Sempora, on Friday observed the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking by organising an awareness programme to educate the public and healthcare professionals about the harmful effects of substance abuse and the importance of prevention, treatment and rehabilitation.
Organised by the Department of Psychiatry, the programme focused on creating awareness about the growing menace of drug addiction and emphasized the importance of early intervention, timely treatment, counselling and rehabilitation. Speakers stressed the need for collective efforts by educational institutions, families and society to build a healthy, drug-free community.
In her message, Executive Director KMCH, Insha Qazi, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at preventing drug abuse and promoting the mental and physical well-being of youth.
She said awareness, education and timely medical intervention are crucial in addressing the growing challenge of substance abuse.
Urging young people to stay away from drugs and adopt healthy lifestyles, she appealed to families and communities to support individuals battling addiction rather than stigmatising them.
“Drug addiction is a treatable condition, and with timely counselling and medical care, individuals can lead healthy and productive lives. Together, we can build a healthier and drug-free society,” she said.
Principal KMCH, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Khan, said the institution remains committed to building a drug-free society by providing timely treatment, counselling and rehabilitation services.
He described drug addiction as a medical and neurobiological condition that should be treated like any other illness without stigma or discrimination.
Prof. Khan also appreciated the 100-day anti-drug campaign launched by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, expressing hope that it would enhance public awareness, encourage early treatment and help combat drug addiction across Jammu and Kashmir.
Head of the Department of Psychiatry, Prof. Maqbool Dar, highlighted unemployment, peer pressure, family conflicts, rapid urbanisation, broken families and lack of awareness as major factors contributing to substance abuse.
He urged parents to acknowledge the growing involvement of youth in drug abuse, closely monitor their children’s behaviour, maintain open communication and seek professional help whenever required.
Prof. Dar emphasised that drug addiction is a treatable medical condition through timely counselling, medical intervention and rehabilitation.
He also appealed to parents, teachers, healthcare professionals, religious leaders and community members to actively participate in preventing substance abuse and supporting those struggling with addiction.
Advocating long-term preventive measures, Prof. Dar suggested introducing education on the harmful effects of drug abuse into school curricula and recommended the appointment of trained counsellors and psychologists in schools to identify vulnerable students and provide timely psychological support.
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