Drugs and Their Impact on Individuals and Society: Al-Kindy College Leads an Action-Focused Awareness Seminar
The Continuing Education Unit hosted an awareness seminar on “Drugs and Their Impact on Individuals and Society,” chaired by Prof. Dr. Dhekra Najm and delivered by Asst. Lect. Asmaa Taha, in the presence of Dean Prof. Dr. Mohammed Shihab Al-Aidani, vice-deans, and faculty members.
Understanding the spectrum: Definitions and rising trends, distinguishing natural (qat, opium, morphine, cannabis) from synthetic (heroin, amphetamines) substances.
Recognizing early warning signs: Drowsiness, red eyes, tremors, loss of appetite, and sleep disturbances—triggers for early intervention.
Health and social harms: Effects on the nervous system, broader physical health, and psychological/social dimensions that affect families and communities.
Pregnancy risks explained: Placental transfer leading to congenital anomalies, low birth weight, sleep disorders, seizures, and potential fetal death.
From awareness to response: Evidence-based treatment options, a synopsis of Iraqi legal penalties, and a call to activate family and community prevention roles.
“Prevention begins with recognition, and recognition begins at home and school,” the session emphasized—linking knowledge to early, compassionate action.
Know the signs:
drowsiness, red eyes, tremors, appetite loss and sleep disruption
Act early:
speak to a counselor, seek medical assessment, avoid stigma—support saves lives
For families: maintain open conversations, set clear boundaries, model healthy coping
Substance use challenges are evolving. The College’s approach integrates prevention, early detection, treatment pathways, and legal awareness, emphasizing a campus-wide culture of vigilance and care.
