Report of Seminar on the topic “From Curiosity to Dependency: Understanding the Path of Addiction”.
To commemorate the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Department of Public Health Dentistry of Azeezia College of Dental Science and Research, along with the NSS Unit (NSS/SFU/KLM/KUHS/3), organized a seminar titled “From Curiosity to Dependency: Understanding the Path of Addiction.” The session was conducted by Mr. Johns K. Lukose, Psychologist and Director, Life Skills BVET Centre for Counselling and Training, Chathannoor, Kollam. The seminar aimed to create awareness among students about substance abuse, addiction, and its impact on individuals, families, and society.
The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed on 26th June, as declared by the United Nations, to strengthen global action and cooperation in achieving a world free from drug abuse and illegal trafficking. Drug abuse and illicit trafficking are major public health and social issues. An introductory session on drug abuse and illicit trafficking was delivered by Dr. Naveen Jacob Varghese, Reader, Department of Public Health Dentistry, Azeezia College of Dental Sciences and Reasearch. Drug abuse refers to the harmful or excessive use of psychoactive substances, while illicit trafficking refers to the illegal production, transport, smuggling, distribution, or sale of drugs and other prohibited substances.
The seminar began with a welcome speech and a brief introduction to drug abuse and illicit trafficking. The speaker then discussed the causes and effects of substance abuse in detail. Commonly used drugs, withdrawal symptoms, and stages of addiction were also explained. The physical, psychological, and social consequences were highlighted. During the session, Dr. Johns K. Lukose elaborated on the concept of drug abuse and illicit trafficking, emphasizing their harmful effects on individuals, families, and society. He discussed the causes and risk factors of substance abuse, commonly abused drugs, and the stages of addiction. The session also covered the signs and symptoms of addiction, withdrawal symptoms, and the various consequences of drug abuse. To help students understand the seriousness of addiction, he shared real-life case examples. He further emphasized the importance of prevention, early intervention, treatment, and rehabilitation, and highlighted the vital role of family, educational institutions, and society in preventing substance abuse. The session concluded by stressing the need for awareness, counselling, and adopting a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.
uiopiThe programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. R Rathy(Principal, Azeezia Dental College), who expressed sincere gratitude to the resource person, faculty members, and all participants for making the seminar a success. As a token of appreciation, a memento was presented to Mr. Johns K. Lukose. The seminar was informative and successfully created awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse and illicit trafficking. Overall, the programme was beneficial and encouraged students to contribute towards building a drug-free society.
