Mokokchung, 9 November (MTNews): A one-day awareness program on “Substance Abuse” on the theme “Say No to Drugs” was organized by the Department of Social Welfare, Government of Nagaland at the DC Conference Hall, Mokokchung. This awareness seminar was held for Child Care Institutes, District Child Protection Unit (DCPUs) and other stakeholders of Mokokchung District.
The resource person for the seminar was Dr T Amongla, Principal, People’s College, Mokokchung. Speaking on the topic, “Identifying Substance Abuse, Mitigation, Prevention and Counseling,” she drew focus on the key impacts of using illicit drugs. She pointed out four elements of substance abuse: Cravings for unwanted drugs, loss of control, compulsion to meet their need, and use of the substance despite the consequence. She further said that substance abuse disorder is a mental health disorder in which teenagers use abusive substances in an unhealthy way that interferes with their normal life.
The awareness seminar was attended by Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) Observation Home, Care and Support Children Home (CCI), Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU), and District Child Protection Unit (DCPU).
Chumalo Humtsoe ADC also delivered a short speech while Samuel Kape, District Child Protection Officer, delivered the welcome speech.