Joseph Nyekha addressing NMBA awareness and linkage programme on September 19 in Kohima.
Kohima, September 20 (MExN): The Nasha Mukti Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) awareness and linkage programme was organised by Youth Mission in collaboration with Tobacco Control Committee, Capital College of Higher Education (CCHE), Kohima, on September 19.
The programme aimed to sensitize students on substance use and addiction, its impact on the brain and overall well-being, and the importance of making informed and responsible choices. The programme commenced with welcome address and introduction to the programme delivered by Deto Keyho, Project Coordinator, Youth Mission. He gave a brief overview of Youth Mission and highlighted the objectives and significance of the awareness programme.
In opening remarks, Niekhoto Cürhah, Assistant Professor and Convenor of the Tobacco Control Committee, CCHE, emphasised the importance of creating awareness among young people regarding the harmful effects of substance use and addiction.
The session on “Neuroscience of Addiction” was conducted by Joseph Nyekha, Project Director, Youth Mission. He explained the effects of addictive substances on the brain and discussed how addiction can significantly alter brain functioning, behaviour, decision-making, relationships, and overall well-being.
He said that the consumption of addictive substances, including alcohol, can significantly affect the brain’s reward system and dopamine levels, adding that addiction can place an individual in a survival-oriented state, sometimes leading them to engage in harmful or otherwise unimaginable behaviours in an attempt to obtain the substance. He further stressed the importance of perseverance, support, and professional rehabilitation in overcoming addiction.
Nyekha gave a brief introduction to the Youth Mission Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for Addicts, highlighting the rehabilitation and support services available for individuals struggling with substance dependence. Informational brochures regarding the rehabilitation centre were also distributed to the participants.
During the programme, Nasha Mukti Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) pledge was administered by Hemjei Angh, Counsellor, Youth Mission. He explained that NMBA is an initiative aimed at creating awareness and promoting collective efforts towards building a drug-free society.
He encouraged students and members of the community to make responsible and informed choices and to actively contribute towards the prevention of substance abuse.
The programme concluded with vote of thanks by Deto Keyho, Project Coordinator, Youth Mission. The programme also witnessed the distribution of Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials by Youth Mission.
Niekhoto Cürhah informed that the programme served as a meaningful platform for creating awareness among students about the neuroscience of addiction, the effects of alcohol and tobacco on the brain and well-being, the challenges of recovery, and the importance of making informed and responsible choices.
It also strengthened the linkage between the college community and Youth Mission by providing students with information about available rehabilitation and support services.
