The Prahari Club of Delhi Public School, RK Puram, hosted a guest speaker programme for the students of class IX(A-N) on 6th November 2023 on “Prevention of Substance Abuse”. The session aimed to shed light on the critical issue of preventing substance abuse among young individuals. The guest speaker for this event was Ms. Roshini Mehta, a clinical psychologist affiliated with the department of Mental Health and behavioural sciences at Fortis Healthcare Vasant Kunj
The primary objective of this programme was to provide students with comprehensive insight into substance abuse prevention while emphasising the substantial impact of factors such as peer pressure and the pervasive influence of social media. The event commenced with a gracious welcome from the Headmistress, Ms. Rashmi Malhotra, who warmly felicitated Ms. Roshini Mehta.
Throughout the programme, Ms. Roshini engaged the students in insightful discussions on various facets of substance abuse. This included the identification of harmful substances prevalent in society, such as alcohol, marijuana, and heroin. She also made a clear distinction between mere substance use and the more serious issue of substance abuse.
Students were sensitized to the powerful impact of peer pressure, stress, inquisitive curiosity, and the potential pitfalls of misinformation. Ms. Roshini offered a thoughtful examination of addiction, providing a deep understanding of how individuals can unwittingly become entangled in substance abuse.
An essential component of the programme was dedicated to equipping students with essential skills to assertively decline offers of harmful substances, particularly when subjected to peer pressure. The “Broken Record Technique” was introduced as a valuable tool, encouraging students to confidently and resolutely assert their stance by repeating the word ‘NO’ when facing undue peer pressure. Ms. Roshini underscored the importance of surrounding oneself with a supportive and responsible social circle as a protective measure against substance abuse.
The Guest Speaker Programme, facilitated by Ms. Roshini Mehta, left a profound impact on the students of class IX. It was marked by its interactive nature, as students actively participated and freely shared their thoughts and concerns. Ms. Roshini addressed their questions and doubts with patience and clarity, ensuring that every student left with a better understanding of the subject matter.
At the end of the session, a vote of thanks was extended to Ms. Roshini Mehta for her invaluable contribution to this enlightening and educational initiative.
