Institutions have been challenged to adopt strong systems of counseling to help reduce drugs and substance abuse among Kenyans.
According to the North Eastern regional manager for NACADA Rev. Wangai Gachoka, emotional stress, having responsibilities that one finds overwhelming, being under lots of pressure were among the major contributors to one indulging in drug and substance abuse while seeking solace.
He said that psycho-social approach form a significant part of management planning with a role in prevention, treatment, relapse prevention and long term rehabilitation hence the need to institutionalize counseling.
He challenged the ministry of education through the Teacher Service Commission to make sure they at least post a teacher who has skills in guidance and counseling in school to help address the same.
Gachoka who was speaking in a meeting organized by Saint Martin and brought together people and institutions that in one way or the other come into contact with individuals with addiction, underscored the need for addiction to be classified as a disease to help the victims’ access medical help without stigmatization.
He added that society had a vital role in helping reduce drug and substance abuse by always encouraging and helping those in addiction out of it.
His sentiment was echoed by George Maina an officer with Saint Martin who noted the need for concerted efforts towards fighting the same.
Maina noted that there were new drugs being brought into the market calling on the government to help fight it.
Sergent David Muchia who recovered from drug addiction noted that there was still hope for those addicted saying all they need is support.