Shillong: Early intervention and tight family bonds stop drug abuse. Experts spoke out Thursday during the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Shillong. Dr. W. Shira, a psychiatrist at MIMHANS, highlighted the brutal toll addiction takes on families. Addicts often ditch responsibilities and turn to crime to feed their habits.
Society needs to drop the stigma. Shira said we must view addicts as patients needing help instead of prisoners. She noted, "Rejection or imprisonment often worsens the condition by isolating users." Relying on Opioid Substitution Therapy and counseling works better than isolation. Early treatment prevents long-term brain damage that makes recovery harder.
Addiction stems from denial and peer pressure. Bansuklang Lyngdoh shared how peer influence ruined his life in 2012 before the Good Samaritan Society helped him recover. Another man, Rajiv, moved from alcoholism and homelessness to stability through intensive rehab.
The Good Samaritan Society reports over 200 people served at their Khlieh Iewduh center since last year. While three people successfully started their own businesses, unemployment remains a massive barrier. HS Suting, the organization's chairman, supports a new government plan for a Halfway Home. Community leaders and teachers wrapped up the event by brainstorming local ways to cut off drug trafficking.
Comments