Seminar on Counter Narcotics Campaign and Adolescent Mental Health
A significant awareness seminar on ‘Adolescent Mental Health’ was held at Government Queen Mary Graduate College under the directives of the DPI and Director of Colleges as part of the ‘Counter Narcotics Campaign’. The seminar was organized by the Department of Psychology in collaboration with Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning, aiming to raise awareness among students about mental health and drug prevention.
Guest speakers were Dr. Maria Ali, Drug Abuse Prevention Specialist associated with United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and Major Muhammad Nazir, Deputy Director (Drug Demand Reduction), Punjab. The seminar was presided over by the Principal, Professor Dr. Sidra Amir.
Major Muhammad Nazir, in his address, stated that drug abuse is a serious menace that is rapidly affecting the younger generation. He urged parents and teachers to spend time with students, monitor their activities, and listen to their concerns attentively. He emphasized that all religions prohibit drug use and that collective efforts are essential for building a healthy society.
Professor Dr. Sidra Amir, in her presidential address, remarked that such seminars are the need of the hour. She stated that students should not be limited to academic learning alone; equal attention must be given to their psychological and emotional development so they can become balanced and responsible citizens. She appreciated the efforts of the Department of Psychology and reaffirmed the continuation of such initiatives in educational institutions.
Dr. Maria Ali highlighted that students should openly share their problems and emotions rather than suppressing them. She shed light on the increasing trend of vaping and drug use, discussing its causes and harmful effects, and stressed that collective awareness is necessary to protect youth from these dangers.
Dr. Shazia Aslam, Head of the Department of Psychology, stated that adolescence (ages 10–19) is a highly sensitive phase of life during which young individuals face various psychological, emotional, and academic pressures. She explained that if these issues remain unaddressed, they may develop into serious mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. She further noted that drug use often stems from unresolved psychological problems, making awareness, timely guidance, and treatment essential.
She emphasized that a healthy mind is crucial for a healthy society. Students should learn to express their emotions, adopt a positive attitude, and support one another instead of leaving anyone isolated. If someone is experiencing anger or emotional distress, it is important to talk to them and offer guidance. She reiterated that “talking leads to solutions” and encouraged students to communicate rather than suffer in silence.
She also added that ‘seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness’, and students should never hesitate to reach out for support
An interactive question-and-answer session was also held during the seminar, where students openly shared their concerns and received valuable guidance from the experts.
At the end of the event, shields were presented to the distinguished guests, and Dr. Shazia Aslam expressed gratitude to the guests, faculty members, and students. The speakers collectively emphasized the importance of emotional expression, mutual support, and seeking help to build a healthy and safe society.
