A consultative programme on reducing risky behaviour among youth under influence of drugs was held in Mawkyrwat today.
A discussion on the roles and responsibilities of the community, health and police departments and educational institutions in combating drug abuse featured at the programme.
Participants also offered recommendations and suggestions regarding the importance of raising awareness, addressing the supply of illicit drugs, implementing prevention measures, and the need of setting up rehabilitation centre and a de-addiction centre within the district to provide treatment for drug addiction.
The resource person at the programme was Rev. L. E. Jyrwa, Pastor In-Charge of the District Counselling Centre at Jingiaseng Kynthei Mawkyrwat Presbytery and Member of the Life Care Foundation who gave a brief presentation on “Reducing risky behaviour among youth under influence of drugs (drug users)”.
He also outlined the challenges faced by the district, with a focus on prevention and management strategies, the types of risky behaviours among drug users and techniques to mitigate risky behaviours among drug users, including stakeholder identification, cognitive and psychological empathy, education and awareness programmes, counselling programmes, legal and policy interventions, as well as empowerment and self-efficacy.
Furthermore, he discussed the roles and responsibilities of parents, community members, police, and health departments in addressing drug abuse.
Deputy Commissioner Tableland Lyngwa said that the consultative program will provide valuable experiences in developing mental attitude, enabling stakeholders to effectively address any potential situations or challenges that may arise.
In his keynote address, District Medical and Health Officer Dr. F. R. Lartang emphasised that drug abuse presents a significant challenge to society today. He stressed that preventing drug use, as well as the consumption of tobacco and alcohol, would greatly contribute to averting numerous health problems.
He also highlighted that the most effective approach to combating drug abuse is to reject drugs outright from the outset.
The consultation was organised by the office of the District Mental Health Programme.
Others who also spoke were the Nodal Officer, District Mental Health Programme Dr. W. L.Narry and A. Lyngkhoi, Clinical Psychologist.
