Authorities in Baramulla launch initiative to rehabilitate substance abuse patients

Baramulla, Oct 29: The Baramulla district administration, in collaboration with Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla, has launched a pioneering initiative aimed at rehabilitating patients who have successfully overcome substance abuse disorders.

This initiative, the first of its kind in north Kashmir, seeks to provide these patients with the support and resources needed to reintegrate into society and prevent relapse due to unemployment.

The effort involves close cooperation between GMC Baramulla’s Department of Psychiatry, the District Employment and Counselling Centre, and the Social Welfare Department.

On Monday, an interactive meeting was held with the families of remitted patients at GMC Baramulla to discuss the importance of rehabilitation for those in remission.

The meeting emphasised the role of family support and employment in ensuring these patients avoid relapse and remain substance-free.

According to available data from the Addiction Treatment Facility (ATF) at GMC Baramulla, established a year ago, the ATF has registered approximately 1,300 patients, with around 900 currently undergoing treatment. Data shows that 100 patients have completely stopped drug use and are now in remission.

Dr Tajamul, head of GMC Baramulla’s Department of Psychiatry, stated that there is a critical need for the rehabilitation of remitted drug abuse patients, especially those at risk of falling back into substance use due to a lack of employment opportunities.

“A hundred patients who are in total remission now require rehabilitation. Without intervention, the lack of employment opportunities could lead some of them back to addiction,” Dr Tajamul said.

He noted that a committee has been established, comprising officials from the district employment office, the social welfare department, and Government Degree College Baramulla, to oversee the rehabilitation efforts.

The rehabilitation process includes counseling sessions where patients and their families are introduced to employment schemes designed to help them build sustainable livelihoods.

"So far, 34 patients have been identified for the programme, with five already successfully rehabilitated," Dr. Tajamul added. He emphasised that efforts are ongoing to support the remaining patients.

This initiative represents a significant step forward in the Baramulla district administration's response to the growing substance use issue, with rehabilitation efforts now deemed vital to a patient’s long-term recovery.