DIMAPUR — The Psychology and Counseling department of St. Joseph University (SJU), in collaboration with the Institution Innovation Council (IIC), organised an awareness programme on the 'Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan' on Tuesday.
An update from the university stated that the event was designed to educate and inform the first-semester undergraduate students about the dangers of drug use and addiction.
In her keynote address, Ikali Sema, renowned counselor from the Wellness Centre, discussed the severe impacts of substance abuse, touching upon substances such as tobacco, alcohol, illicit drugs and prescription medications. She elaborated on how those substances contribute to significant health impairments, stress and long-term challenges.
She emphasised the importance of adopting effective coping strategies for recovery, including engaging in relaxing activities, practicing mindfulness, avoiding impulsive behaviors and maintaining honesty with oneself. She further called upon the students to stay clean from substance addiction.
Dr. WatinaroLongkumer, head of Psychology and Counseling department, delivered the welcome address and also administered pledge to the students against substance abuse.
The programme featured a musical performance by Rongsenzungla and Viani from the first-semester undergraduate class.
The session concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Yanbeni W Lotha, assistant professor of Psychology and Counseling, and a benediction said by Thomas, a third-semester undergraduate student in Psychology and Counseling.
Report further stated that an approximate 250 students from various departments including Political Science, Psychology and Counseling, Sociology, Journalism and Mass Communication, English and Education attend for the programme.