Breaking the silence on substance abuse

Addiction begins with the hope that something ‘out there’ can instantly fill up the emptiness inside, Jean Kilbourne had said. A workshop on substance abuse was conducted by Raissa Goyal and Syna Dham of the Prahari Club at Apeejay School, Pitampura. The initiative aimed to create awareness among students about substance abuse, its harmful effects, addiction, prevention, and the importance of seeking timely support. The session was informative, interactive, and engaging, enabling students to better understand the risks associated with substance misuse.

The workshop began with an introduction to drug abuse and harmful substance use, highlighting how the misuse of prescription medicines and the use of substances to cope with stress or difficult emotions can lead to serious consequences. Students were introduced to commonly misused substances, including alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, and opioids, and learned about their effects on both physical and mental health. 

A key focus of the session was understanding how addiction affects the brain. The speakers explained how repeated substance use can influence brain functioning and contribute to dependence and compulsive behaviour. The discussion also covered the short-term and long-term consequences of substance abuse, including impaired judgement, anxiety, cognitive difficulties, organ damage, and a weakened immune system. These insights helped students recognise that substance abuse can have far-reaching effects on an individual’s health, relationships, and future.

To reinforce the concepts discussed, an interactive quiz was conducted, allowing students to test their understanding in an engaging manner. This was followed by a thought-provoking debate on addiction, encouraging participants to consider whether addiction should primarily be viewed through the lens of personal accountability or as a condition requiring treatment, compassion, and rehabilitation. The activity promoted critical thinking and encouraged students to approach the issue from multiple perspectives. 

Overall, the workshop was an engaging and meaningful initiative by the Prahari Club. It encouraged students to make informed and healthy choices, understand the seriousness of substance abuse, and recognize the importance of early intervention and support. The session concluded with a positive affirmation, reminding students to choose healthy habits, seek help when needed, and take responsibility for protecting their health and future.