Department of Mental Health Nursing of Laxmi Memorial college of Nursing, Balmatta, Mangaluru observed the International drug abuse and illicit Trafficking day on 27 th June 2023 at the college auditorium for 220 students from both nursing and Physiotherapy. The theme of this year was People first: stop discrimination, strengthen prevention. The chief Guest of the day Mr. S Mahesh Kumar Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mangalore central subdivision, Bunder, Mangalore gave a call to the students to keep away from drugs which requires a lot of determination. He also asked the young students, the future of our nation to be healthy and focus on the goals which they have planned for themselves. Vice Principal of Laxmi Memorial college of Nursing Dr. Theresa Leonilda Mendonsa in her presidential address thanked the assistant commissioner for accepting our invitation. She also reiterated that in today’s world addictions have become common. Refraining from using drugs and other products would be the best choice even though peer group may encourage you. The Resource person Mr. Umesh Kumar Sub Inspector of police Mangalore East Police Station, Kadri, Mangalore spoke on the legal implications of addictions and Mr. Guruprasad Founder, Born Again Recovery Centre(BARC), Mangaldevi, Mangalore shared his life experiences and explained the need to give a helping hands to those with the several problems. The HOD of Mental Health Nursing department Dr. Thereza Mathias, Prof Shivakumar and other faculty were present. A reel making completion on the theme ill effects of drugs was also organized for all college students. The prize for reel competition was bagged by Pandhyaraj College of nursing. The 2nd year GNM students led us into prayers, Ms Slyvia Welcomed the gathering and Ms. Shwetha proposed the vote of thanks and Nayana Noble compered the program. Refreshments were served to the participants.
