Faculty and students along with other officials during an awareness programme on addiction held at Sao Chang College, Tuensang on March 30.
Tuensang, March 30 (MExN): The Department of Addiction Treatment Facility (ATF), District Hospital Tuensang, in collaboration with the Mental Health Club of Sao Chang College, conducted an awareness programme on addiction at the college premises on March 30.
A total of 55 members of the club attended the session, which was graced by the Principal, Dr Lanurenla.
The resource person, Jemya Walling, Counselor at ATF, DH Tuensang, provided a concise overview of addiction, defining it as an unhealthy dependence on substances or behaviors. At the same time, she outlined major categories of substances—depressants, opioids, stimulants, and hallucinogens—and explained their effects on the brain and behavior.
Likewise, Walling underscored the Bio-Psychosocial Model, emphasizing the combined influence of biological, psychological, and social factors in the development of addiction. She also discussed the stages of substance use, from experimentation to dependence and relapse, noting the importance of understanding the relapse cycle for effective intervention.
Students were guided on coping strategies, which included engaging in hobbies, maintaining healthy habits, and focusing on the “three pillars” of well-being—diet, exercise, and sleep. The importance of social support, emotional regulation, self-care, and seeking professional help through therapy and medication was also emphasised.
In conclusion, the speaker stressed prevention through awareness, resistance, and avoidance, encouraging students to stay informed, resist peer pressure, and avoid high-risk situations. The programme concluded with an interactive session, after which the students collectively signed a pledge to fight addiction and spread awareness in the community, making the event both meaningful and impactful.
