Community-Based Approaches in Substance Use Disorder Treatment: Field Experiences from Jammu & Kashmir, India
Title: Community-Based Approaches in Substance Use Disorder Treatment: Field Experiences from Jammu & Kashmir, India.
Introduction
Substance use has become a growing concern across India, with youth being disproportionately affected. In regions like Jammu & Kashmir, conflict, unemployment, and psychosocial stress add additional layers of vulnerability. Stigma and lack of awareness further prevent individuals from accessing treatment.
To respond to these challenges, the Jammu & Kashmir Society for Promotion of Youth and Masses (JKSPYM), supported by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (MOSJE), Government of India, operates a drug de-addiction centre. This centre provides counselling, rehabilitation, and community-based interventions.
Counselling and Intervention Approaches
As a counsellor working in this setting, the interventions adopted include:
- Individual Counselling: Building trust with clients, using motivational techniques, and developing relapse prevention strategies.
- Family Counselling: Strengthening family relationships to create supportive home environments for recovery.
- Community Awareness: Conducting school-based programs and awareness programs to reduce stigma.
- Peer Support Models: Encouraging individuals in recovery to guide and inspire new clients.
Outcomes Observed
- Increased willingness among youth to seek treatment after awareness activities.
- Improved family involvement in recovery processes.
- Successful engagement of local communities, teachers, and leaders in reducing stigma.
- Positive examples of clients achieving long-term abstinence and reintegration into education or employment.
Challenges
- Stigma: Persistent negative attitudes toward addiction continue to discourage individuals from seeking help.
- Mental Health Co-Morbidity: Depression, anxiety, and trauma often coexist with substance use, complicating treatment.
- Easy Availability of Drugs: Despite awareness and law enforcement efforts, substances such as opioids and pharmaceuticals are readily accessible in the community, fueling relapse and new cases.
Lessons Learned
- Recovery is Holistic: Beyond medical treatment, family support and livelihood opportunities are crucial.
- Community Matters: Reducing stigma through local leaders and schools strengthens prevention and recovery.
- Training is Key: Continuous professional development for counsellors ensures evidence-based practices.
Conclusion
The experience at JKSPYM demonstrates that community-based, family-oriented approaches can effectively support individuals with substance use disorders. Sharing these practices through platforms like ISSUP contributes to a wider understanding of what works in challenging contexts such as Jammu & Kashmir.
Author: Asma Bhat
Counsellor, JKSPYM (Drug De-Addiction Centre, MOSJE Supported)
Member, ISSUP
