Important Messages Were Given to Students at the Fighting Addiction Seminar
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The common effects of addiction in society, its types and prevention methods were discussed in the Fighting Addiction Seminars held in both campuses of our University. Within the scope of the efforts of the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye and the Council of Higher Education (YÖK) to raise awareness among young people about the fight against addiction, awareness seminars on the fight against addiction were organized at our University. The seminars held at Küçükyalı and Sütlüce Campuses were given by Prof. Dr. Orhan Doğan, a faculty member in the Department of Psychology. Prof. Dr. Doğan discussed the concept of addiction, its types and treatment methods in detail. The seminar attracted great interest from the University’s academicians and students.
ADDICTION IS NOT JUST ABOUT SUBSTANCE USE
Prof. Dr. Orhan Doğan emphasized that addiction is not limited to substance use, and that behavioral and virtual addictions have also become a significant problem in today’s societies. Prof. Dr. Doğan said, “Not being able to quit a substance or behavior negatively affects many areas of a person’s life”, drawing attention to the devastating consequences of addiction on a social and individual levels.
TREATMENT STARTS WITH THE WILLINGNESS OF THE INDIVIDUAL
Pointing out that addiction is treatable, Prof. Dr. Doğan stated that the treatment process depends on the individual’s willingness and the presence of social support, and said, “Addiction is a brain disease and many approaches must be used together for treatment.” Prof. Dr. Doğan emphasized the importance of awareness-raising activities in spite of the difficulties of the treatment process.
YOUNG PEOPLE’S TECHNOLOGY ADDICTION IS INCREASING
The seminar also specifically addressed the issue of technology addiction. Prof. Dr. Doğan stated that the use of the internet and smartphones has increased unconsciously and this may lead to social isolation among young people. Asking students to use technology more consciously, Prof. Dr. Doğan warned young people by saying, “You think you are following the developments in the world by constantly looking at your phones, but this is an illusion.”
WAYS TO PREVENT ADDICTION
Prof. Dr. Orhan Doğan stated that social awareness-raising and prevention efforts in the fight against addiction are as important as treatment. Emphasizing the need to ensure domestic peace, develop healthy social relationships and strengthen the individual’s sense of self-confidence in the fight against addiction, Prof. Dr. Doğan said, “Prevention efforts carried out before becoming addicted prolong the time the individual stays clean.” The seminar, which continued with a question and answer (Q&A) session, concluded with Prof. Dr. Doğan’s words, “Be the master of addictive substances and objects, not their slave.”
