On 23/07/2024, Tuesday, a group of 53 students of I MSW, School of Social Work (SSW), Roshni Nilaya visited LINK – IRCA (Integrated Rehabilitation Center for Addiction) along with their faculty in charge Ms. Angelin Ebinezar.
The students reached LINK at 2:30 pm. The orientation was conducted by Dr. Anitha M. D’Souza, Counselor at Yoga Meditation Hall. She gave a presentation on substance abuse. She walked the students through different types of addictions and the reasons why people succumb to them. She then presented different types of substances one can become addicted to, the ill effects of addiction on children, how these substances can affect one’s health and the symptoms of addiction.
One of the inmates shared their struggle with drug abuse, how he got into it and his road to recovery. Dr. Anitha spoke again of how the menace of drug abuse has captured Mangaluru and discussed a few cases that have come to light. She continued to speak about how and when LINK was established. She explained the medical and therapeutic treatments provided for inmates as well as the skill development training the center conducts. Another inmate shared his story and his motivation to fight alcoholism. Being a talented singer, he sang for the students and entertained them.
Dr. Anitha concluded her session by advising the students to “Say ‘no’ to drugs, and ‘yes’ to life!” Mr. Gladson gave the vote of thanks on behalf of SSW, Roshni Nilaya. The students assembled for a group photograph that marked the end of the field visit
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