The Department of Health- Drug Abuse and Rehabilitation Center Mountain Province (DOH-DARC-MP) conducted a seminar entitled International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADAIT) on June 15, 2023, at Abatan National High School (ANHS). This program aims to give information concerning mental health, drug use, and abuse. The seminar was attended by students from grade seven to grade ten.
According to Kathleen B. Tulas, Medical Officer III DOH-DATRC-MP, IDADAIT is led by the DOH with this year’s theme “People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, strengthen prevention.” The DOH-DATRC-MP aims to raise awareness of the importance of treating people who use drugs with respect and empathy and advocate for the prevention of the use of illicit drugs.
Furthermore, Edgar M. Caben Social Welfare Officer II-DOH-DARC-MP stated that there is a need for this program so that the youth is aware of the extent of drug effects in society. Hence, the youth should be mobilized toward being part of the solution.
What is the IDADAIT program?
According to the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Presidential Proclamation No. 264, the 26th of June has been declared as the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADAIT).
As stated by Caben, the IDADAIT program is monitored yearly. The activity comprised lectures to guarantee that the youth understand and comprehend preventive measures against mental health problems, drug use and misuse. He also mentioned, mental health issues usually lead to drug abuse, alcoholism, and smoking.
Suggestion to Stakeholders
On the other hand, Caben requested stakeholders to cooperate in this type of program. This initiative raises awareness about these issues. It also teaches people to apply it at home or in the community. Lastly, he acknowledges the youth’s participation and interest in the issue.
Message of Encouragement
One of the participants mentioned “Bawal men bisyo, dapat men exercise bawal ay men bulbully tay siya men rugyan di stress ya no man wada proproblemaem ya ade men suicide, ibaga san kakadwa wenno san making ammo ta masolbar san problema (No vices, you should exercise [and] no bullying because this is where stress starts. If there is problem, ask help from your friends. Always seek for professional help to address your concern).”
With the spike in cases of mental health problems and drug use and abuse in the country, Tulas highlighted a message to youth “It’s okay to ask for help, ask for help from a trusted adult, you’re not alone right now. Help is there, it’s okay to reach out, we’re hearing your cries and were trying to do our best to address it.” By Wentzel Boteng
