Community Awareness Program on Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation
2 min read
Kullu Nov 06
In Bhuntar, Kullu district, a community awareness program on substance abuse and rehabilitation was organized by the Integrated Drug De-Addiction and Rehabilitation Center (DDR Center). The DDR Center operates a toll-free helpline number at 01902 265265 for free assistance.
During the program, local youth, schoolchildren, and residents from the Gram Panchayat Jalugran and the Government Senior Secondary School Jalugran were provided with various information about substance abuse and its impact. Psychologist Divya Bharadwaj emphasized that addiction is a disease, and it’s essential to understand the adverse effects to prevent it. She mentioned that individuals who fall prey to addiction can be treated if brought to the DDR Center in a timely manner, where various medicines and treatments are available to help them overcome their addiction.
Divya Bharadwaj further explained that at the Substance-Free Center, doctors provide appropriate guidance and medication to the patients, and along with medication, meditation, yoga, sports, and various activities, they help women overcome their addiction. She highlighted that, under the supervision of doctors and staff nurses, the health conditions of the patients are monitored, including their blood pressure, temperature, and other medical tests. In case of an emergency, arrangements have been made for proper hospital referrals.
Counselors at the DDR Center provide individual counseling and family counseling sessions during the treatment period. Patients are also engaged in physical exercises, meditation, and yoga in the morning. Throughout the day, they follow a scheduled program of various activities.
Patients are provided with a clean bed, breakfast, tea, lunch, and dinner during their treatment at the center.
Project Coordinator Anita Thakur mentioned that patients admitted to the center receive treatment as inpatients or residents. Inpatients receive free medicines, and counseling sessions are organized by a psychologist or counselor for the patient and their family members. She noted that those with severe symptoms can be admitted to the center, and the treatment lasts for 21 to 30 days. In case of any emergency, proper hospital referrals are arranged.
The program was appreciated by the head of the school and the school principal, who were present at the event, along with students, teachers, and members of the self-help group. For more information, individuals can contact the helpline at 01902 265265.
