Indian Psychiatric Society seeks substance abuse chapter in high school curriculum

The Indian Psychiatric Society has decided to urged the Centre to include a structured, age-appropriate chapter on substance abuse in Classes IX–XII, citing a worrying rise in early drug use among adolescents

Hyderabad: The Indian Psychiatric Society (IPS) during its National Executive Council Meeting in New Delhi on Wednesday unanimously approved a proposal to request the Government of India to include a structured, age-appropriate chapter on substance abuse and its hazards in the high school curriculum (Classes IX to XII).

The proposal was presented by Dr Vishal Akula, National Direct Council Member, Indian Psychiatric Society, who highlighted the alarming rise in early initiation of substance use among children and adolescents, including alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, inhalants, prescription medications, and emerging behavioral addictions such as online betting and gaming.

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The proposed chapter would be scientific, non-stigmatizing, and skill-oriented, focusing on awareness of substances, their impact on physical and mental health, peer-pressure management, refusal skills, and help-seeking behavior.

The proposal was endorsed under the leadership of Dr. Savita Malhotra, President, Indian Psychiatric Society, Dr. T. S. S. Rao, President-Elect, Indian Psychiatric Society, Dr. Amrit Pattojoshi, Hon. General Secretary, Indian Psychiatric Society.

The meeting was also attended by Dr George Reddy, IPS South Zone general secretary, and Dr P Kishan, president, Indian Medical Association (IMA), Telangana State.