THANNAMANDI, Sep 28: Government Degree College Thannamandi organized an awareness campaign on “Early Identification, Counselling and Seeking Help” under the ongoing series of activities being conducted as part of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA).The initiative was organized under the patronage of College Principal Prof. (Dr.) Shamim Ahmed Azad. The campaign focused on sensitising students about the early warning signs of substance use, the importance of timely intervention, and the need to seek appropriate support without hesitation.
The programme was coordinated by Dr. Ather Aziz Raina, Convener, Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. Addressing the students, Dr. Shazia Paswal, resource person for the programme, highlighted the importance of recognising subtle behavioural and emotional changes that may indicate emerging substance-use concerns. She spoke about warning signs such as erratic behaviour, increased secrecy, hiding things, avoiding eye contact, becoming unusually defensive, and displaying unexplained mood changes. She emphasised that sudden shifts between extreme happiness, irritability and low mood should not be overlooked and may require sensitive and timely support.
Dr. Shazia Paswal further highlighted other possible warning signs, including neglect of academic and personal responsibilities, irregular attendance, declining academic performance, withdrawal from family and social activities, poor personal hygiene and unusual smells. She stressed that early recognition, supportive communication and timely intervention can help prevent substance-use concerns from developing into more serious and long-term problems.
Prof. Rizwana Kousser sensitised students about symptoms associated with anxiety and depression, explaining the importance of recognising emotional and psychological difficulties and understanding when a student may require appropriate counselling or professional support.
Further, Dr. Nigana Kousser focused on preventive measures and encouraged students to address substance-use concerns at an early stage. She urged them to adopt healthy lifestyles, seek help when needed, support their peers, and contribute actively towards creating a safe, healthy and drug-free educational environment.
The campaign witnessed the active participation of NMBA Committee members, including Prof. Yasmine Kouser, Dr. Mohd. Ashrif and Dr. Meenakshi Sharma. The campaign concluded with a strong message that early identification, timely counselling, compassionate communication and collective responsibility are essential for preventing substance abuse. Students were encouraged to break the silence surrounding substance-use concerns, seek help at the right time, and become responsible ambassadors of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.