District Mental Health Programme raises awareness on drug abuse & illicit trafficking

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 30, 2023

The District Mental Health Programme under the District Medical & Health Officer, West Jaintia Hills District Jowai observed “The International Day Against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking” on Monday at Little Flower Higher Secondary School Ummulong, West Jaintia Hills District.

The program in line with this year theme “People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention.” Its main objective was to raise awareness about drug abuse and illicit trafficking issues worldwide.

E Pohty, Monitoring & Evaluation Officer of DMHP, hosted the program, and welcome speech was delivered by Rev Father P Shylla, Principal of Little Flower Higher Secondary School Ummulong.

The resource persons for the program were introduced, including Dr. A. M. Pasweth (Psychiatrist, District Nodal Officer, DMHP), S Syngkon (Clinical Psychologist, DMHP), and D Tongper (Psychiatric Social Worker, DMHP).

The program included speeches and discussions on various topics related to mental health. Dr. A. M. Pasweth spoke on the theme, covering an introduction to drug abuse, types of drugs, causes, signs and symptoms, treatment options, complications, and prevention. S Syngkon discussed the psychological effects of drugs, behavioural changes, counseling, and relapse prevention towards a healthy and sober life. D Tongper highlighted the role of students in eliminating stigma and discrimination related to drug abuse and illicit trafficking.