Kharar (SAS Nagar), October 10:- The Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development, Punjab, organised a panel discussion on ‘Mental Health and Reducing Drug Demand’ at Rayat Bahra University, Kharar, on the occasion of World Mental Health Day under the ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ campaign. Experts from different fields and students participated in the discussion and shared their views on the importance of mental health, the harmful effects of drugs and ways to protect young people from substance abuse.
During the discussion, psychologist Mrs. Praneet Kaur, psychiatrist Dr. Sukhtej, social media influencer Mr. Mehul Saini and Mrs. Shivani Chauhan from the bike club said that drug addiction should not be viewed merely as a physical problem, as it is also associated with mental, emotional and social factors. Stress, loneliness, negative peer influence and personal problems can sometimes push a person towards substance abuse. Therefore, awareness about mental health, family support and timely assistance from experts are extremely important for preventing drug abuse.
The experts specifically urged students to take their mental health seriously and, rather than concealing any kind of mental stress, disappointment or emotional distress, share their concerns with their parents, teachers or trusted individuals. They said students must stay away from drugs, resist pressure from friends to consume them and, if they notice signs of addiction in a fellow student, encourage that person to seek appropriate help instead of making fun of them or leaving them isolated.
The experts said that students facing mental health problems should seek assistance from a psychologist, counsellor or healthcare professional without hesitation. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness; rather, it reflects responsibility towards one’s health and future. They encouraged students to adopt a healthy lifestyle, participate in sports and creative activities, and create a positive environment around themselves.
During the panel discussion, the experts also emphasised the importance of using social media wisely. They said that social media has both positive and negative effects. Therefore, before sharing any post, comment or content, users should consider its possible impact and avoid sharing material that could hurt someone’s feelings. They encouraged students to express their views in a healthy manner and act responsibly while using social media.
At the conclusion, the experts said that the fight against drugs could succeed not through government efforts alone, but only through the collective cooperation of students, parents, teachers and society. They urged students to stay away from drugs themselves, raise awareness among their peers and seek timely help for mental health concerns, thereby contributing to the creation of a healthy, drug-free society.
Before the panel discussion, the riders participating in the ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ bike rally, which had been flagged off by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann from Fateh Burj at Chappar Chiri, were welcomed at Rayat Bahra University upon their arrival and the completion of the rally. The bikers also participated in the panel discussion.
Officials and employees of the Punjab Government’s Department of Health and Family Welfare and Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development were also present on the occasion.
