PREVENTION OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE IN FAMILIES

Prevention of substance abuse in families

• Posted on 30-Jul-2025
• Uploaded by | NITIKA DON BOSCO

Sonada, 30 July, 2025 – The Youth Department of Salesian College Sonada, in collaboration with Project Missio, organized a full day training session on the 27th of July 2025, on Prevention of Substance Abuse in Families through the intervention of Women. 

The programme aimed to create awareness among women about the harmful effects of substance abuse, especially its impact on families and children. A total of sixty-four women hailing from different villages surrounding the college participated in the event.

The session began with a brief welcome and introduction by Fr. Clement Lakra, the Youth Animator of Salesian College. He set the tone for the day by emphasizing the importance of women’s roles in society and in addressing issues related to addiction. He then introduced the speaker of the day, Sr.Claret Lepcha belonging to the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Cluny. She has been actively involved in social work, particularly in child rights, since 2007, after completing her Bachelor’s in Social Work (BSW). Since 2022 she serves as the Chairperson of the Child Welfare Committee of Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts.

The sessions highlighted the various effects of substance abuse in the family. She discussed with the participants the impact addiction has on children, such as emotional and psychological effect, behavioral changes, developmental and health issues, as well as long-term consequences and social implications. Among the long-term consequences, she noted the cycle of addiction being passed down through generations, difficulty in building and maintaining relationships, and chronic stress-related health problems. She also emphasized the importance of seeking timely treatment for drug addiction and the role women can play in prevention and intervention.

The Participants found the session deeply enlightening and meaningful. Ms.Puja Subba from Rungmook shared, “I have come to understand the negative impact of addiction on society and the importance of good parenting”. “I was n’t aware of  what our young people are going through due to the menace of substance abuse. I need to remain vigilant with my children so that they would not become victims of drugs” were the words of Ms. Shanti Rai from Middle Mamring

The event was a significant step towards educating and empowering women to become advocates of change within their families and communities. It encouraged participants to take a more proactive role in safeguarding their homes and nurturing a healthier environment for the next generation.

 

Br. Abhishek Rai SDB