Drugs Advocacy Campaign 2023 was held in Gelephu Thromde Conference Hall by the Chithuen Phendhey Association (CPA) team on 19th September 2023, to advocate on drug abuse and Mental Health. The program was graced by Dasho Thrompon, Executive Director and team (CPA), Regional Heads, Heads from Financial Institutes, and the Thromde officials.
The CPA, under the Royal Patronage of His Majesty the King, is taking a proactive approach to address the escalating drug-related issues in Bhutan by organizing a comprehensive drug awareness and education program across all Dzongkhags and Thromdes. The urgency of this initiative cannot be overstated, given the gravity of the problem and its adverse effects on the community.
Program Overview:
1. Scope and Reach: The program aims to cover all Dzongkhags (districts) and Thromdes (municipalities) in Bhutan, making it an inclusive and extensive campaign that reaches every corner of the country. The focus is on both urban and rural areas, recognizing that drug-related issues can affect all segments of society.
2. Timely Intervention: The Drug and Alcohol Advocacy Campaign conducted for Gelephu Thromde staff on 19/09/2023 highlights the sense of urgency with which the Association is approaching this issue. Immediate action is required to combat the pressing problem of drug abuse and its associated consequences.
3. Campaign Theme - "Yes, We Care": This theme underscores the Association's commitment to the welfare of the community. It reflects a collective responsibility to address drug use, youth crime, and mental health issues. The campaign emphasizes that caring for the well-being of individuals and the community as a whole is paramount.
Campaign Objectives:
1. Education and Awareness: The primary goal of the campaign is to educate and raise awareness among young people, parents, and diverse community members about the dangers of drug use. By providing accurate information and fostering understanding, the campaign aims to empower individuals to make informed choices.
2. Empowering Youth: Recognizing that young people are particularly vulnerable to drug abuse, the campaign seeks to empower them with knowledge and resources to resist peer pressure and make healthy decisions. It encourages them to pursue constructive activities and aspirations.
3. Strengthening Parental Guidance: Parents play a crucial role in preventing drug abuse among their children. The campaign provides parents with the tools and knowledge to engage in open and effective communication with their children regarding drugs and related issues.
4. Community Mobilization: The campaign is not limited to educational efforts but also focuses on mobilizing the community to take collective action. This includes forming support networks, advocating for policy changes, and creating safe spaces for individuals struggling with drug addiction.
Expected Impact:
The "Yes, We Care" Drug Advocacy Campaign is expected to have a profound and positive impact on the community and beyond:
1. Reduced Drug Abuse: By raising awareness and empowering individuals with knowledge and resources, the campaign aims to reduce the incidence of drug abuse, ultimately leading to healthier and safer communities.
2. Decreased Youth Crime: Through targeted interventions and support for youth, the campaign hopes to reduce youth involvement in criminal activities associated with drug abuse.
3. Improved Mental Health: Addressing mental health issues is a vital aspect of the campaign, as drug abuse often leads to mental health problems. By providing resources and destigmatizing mental health discussions, the campaign seeks to improve the overall mental well-being of the community.
4. Stronger Communities: By fostering a sense of collective responsibility and community mobilization, the campaign aims to build stronger, more resilient communities that are better equipped to address a wide range of social challenges.
Gelephu Thromde Administration would like to thank the team for advocating drug abuse and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) assessment.