Kharar, October 10, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Punjab Government’s Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development organised a panel discussion on ‘Mental Health and Reducing the Demand for Drugs’ at Rayat Bahra University, Kharar, on Saturday to mark World Mental Health Day. Held under the state-wide ‘Yudh Nasheyan Virudh’ campaign, the event brought together experts and students to discuss mental well-being, the harmful effects of substance abuse and ways to protect young people from drug addiction.
The panel featured psychologist Praneet Kaur, psychiatrist Dr Sukhtej, influencer Mehul Saini and motorcyclist Shivani Chauhan. They emphasised that drug addiction is not merely a physical health issue but can also be influenced by mental, emotional and social factors.
The experts noted that stress, loneliness, negative peer influence and personal difficulties can contribute to substance abuse. They stressed that mental health awareness, family support and timely professional assistance are essential to preventing drug addiction.
Experts Urge Students to Seek Timely Mental Health Support
The panellists encouraged students to take their mental health seriously and speak to their parents, teachers or trusted individuals if they experience stress, despair or emotional distress, rather than keeping their concerns to themselves.
They also urged young people to resist peer pressure to experiment with drugs or other addictive substances. Students were advised to support peers showing signs of drug dependence by encouraging them to seek appropriate help instead of ridiculing them or leaving them unsupported.
The experts emphasised that students experiencing mental health difficulties should approach psychologists, counsellors or qualified healthcare professionals without hesitation. They said seeking help was not a sign of weakness but a responsible step towards protecting one’s health and future.
Students were further encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle, participate in sports and creative activities, and cultivate positive company to support their mental and physical well-being.
Responsible Social Media Use Highlighted
The discussion also addressed the impact of social media on young people. The experts observed that social media can have both positive and negative effects and urged students to think carefully before sharing posts, comments or other content online.
They advised students to avoid sharing material that could hurt others’ sentiments, express their views constructively and use social media platforms responsibly.
Concluding the discussion, the panellists stressed that tackling drug abuse required collective efforts from the government, students, parents, teachers and society. They called on students to remain drug-free, spread awareness among their peers and seek timely help for mental health concerns to contribute towards a healthier, drug-free society.
‘Yudh Nasheyan Virudh’ Rally Participants Reach University
Before the panel discussion, riders participating in the ‘Yudh Nasheyan Virudh’ bike rally were welcomed at Rayat Bahra University. The rally had been flagged off by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann from Fateh Burj at Chappar Chiri and culminated at the university, where the participating riders also attended the discussion.
Officials and staff members from the Punjab Government’s Department of Health and Family Welfare and Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development were also present.
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