Awareness session at Chemankkad Anganwadi, Palakkad

In the current generation, drug use and mobile addiction have become increasingly prevalent, particularly among the youth. These issues have led to significant behavioural changes, including excessive consumption of alcohol and other substances, often associated with anti-social behaviours. In response to these growing concerns, the Oleevia Foundation organized awareness sessions that were activity-oriented, focusing specifically on mobile addiction and drug abuse under our initiative “Sampoorna Yuva Yojana” under umbrella Project Sashakt Bachpan.
Sreeja, Project Coordinator and Social Worker, discussed the dangers of drug abuse and social media’s negative effects,emphasizing how peer pressure and misinformation impact adolescents. She encouraged healthy habits, critical thinking, and responsible digital behavior for overall well-being.Gautam Ramakrishnan, Chief Project Manager and Psychologist, guided the girls on managing exam stress and mental health issues through time management, mindfulness, and emotional resilience while promoting open discussions and seeking support when needed.
The goal of these sessions was to address the alarming rise in mobile addiction and drug abuse among the younger generation. The foundation aimed to educate the youth on the dangers of excessive mobile phone use and substance abuse, both of which have serious consequences on mental and physical health. The sessions were designed not only to raise awareness but also to provide practical solutions and coping mechanisms for these issues.
The session focused on how excessive mobile phone usage is negatively impacting the mental well-being of young people. It discussed issues like social media dependency, sleep deprivation, and the loss of productivity that come with prolonged screen time. The foundation provided insights into how technology can be used in moderation and how to establish healthy digital habits.
The session also dealt with the growing concern of drug abuse among the youth. It covered the dangers of drugs, including physical and psychological health risks, as well as the impact on personal relationships and social behaviour. Through real-life case studies and expert insights, participants were encouraged to understand the severity of addiction and the importance of seeking help if needed.
To make the sessions engaging and impactful, the Oleevia Foundation adopted an activity-oriented approach. This included interactive discussions, role-playing exercises, and group activities that encouraged participants to reflect on their own behaviours and understand the harmful effects of these addictions. The activities were designed to help participants internalize the lessons and motivate them to make positive changes. The foundation also introduced healthy alternatives to mobile use and substance abuse. For instance, they encouraged participants to take up hobbies such as sports, arts, and mindfulness practices that not only help reduce addiction but also contribute to personal growth and well-being.