The rising prevalence of cannabis use among youth has prompted concern globally. In India, cannabis remains illegal, yet its cultural significance complicates the issue. Recent studies indicate low risk perception regarding cannabis among college students. To combat this, a team from NIMHANS in Bengaluru has developed Pre-CURB, a digital learning resource aimed at educating youth about cannabis prevention and responsible behaviour.
Overview of Pre-CURB
Pre-CURB is an innovative digital resource created by Kannan K. and guided by experts at NIMHANS. It was launched during a workshop for college students, focusing on cannabis use prevention. The resource is structured into three key sections.
Adverse Health Effects
The first section of Pre-CURB details the negative health impacts of cannabis. It marks how cannabis affects cognitive functions, impairs driving abilities, and damages major body systems. Additionally, it provides an update on the legal status of cannabis in India, emphasising its illegality.
Addressing Misconceptions
The second section of Pre-CURB confronts common myths surrounding cannabis use. It clarifies misconceptions such as the belief that cannabis is safer than tobacco or that it cannot lead to addiction. By dispelling these myths, the resource aims to enhance understanding among youth.
Avoiding Cannabis Use
The final section focuses on strategies for young people to avoid cannabis use. It offers practical advice on managing triggers and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Suggestions include nurturing family and social support networks, encouraging positive personality traits, and finding joy without cannabis.
Holistic Approach to Health Education
The workshop accompanying the launch of Pre-CURB adopted a holistic approach to health education. Experts from various disciplines provided interactive sessions on non-communicable disease prevention, stress management, physical fitness, and healthy eating. This comprehensive approach aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for maintaining overall well-being.
Cannabis Use in India
Cannabis, known locally as ganja or bhang, is culturally in India. Despite its illegal status, usage rates among college students range from 6.8% to 36%. Cannabis use is linked to poor academic performance, school dropouts, and cognitive impairments, denoting the urgent need for educational resources like Pre-CURB.
Conclusion
The launch of Pre-CURB reflects a proactive effort to educate youth about the dangers of cannabis use. By providing factual information and practical strategies, this digital resource aims to encourage responsible behaviours among young people in India.
Questions for UPSC:
- Examine the impact of cannabis use on youth education and mental health in India.
- Discuss the cultural significance of cannabis in India and its implications for public health policy.
- What is the role of digital resources in health education? How can they be effectively utilised in preventing substance abuse?
- Critically discuss the effectiveness of community support systems in combating substance use among young adults.
Answer Hints:
1. Examine the impact of cannabis use on youth education and mental health in India.
- Cannabis use is linked to poor academic performance among students.
- It can lead to cognitive impairments affecting memory and learning capabilities.
- Increased use correlates with higher dropout rates in educational institutions.
- Mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, can be exacerbated by cannabis use.
- Low risk perception among youth may contribute to increased usage and its negative consequences.
2. Discuss the cultural significance of cannabis in India and its implications for public health policy.
- Cannabis is traditionally used in festivals and rituals, holding cultural importance.
- This cultural acceptance complicates public health messaging against its use.
- Legal status as illegal contrasts with its widespread social acceptance.
- Public health policies must navigate cultural beliefs while promoting awareness of health risks.
- Effective policies may require community engagement to reshape perceptions about cannabis.
3. What is the role of digital resources in health education? How can they be effectively utilised in preventing substance abuse?
- Digital resources provide accessible information on health risks and prevention strategies.
- They can engage youth through interactive and relatable content, enhancing learning.
- Resources like Pre-CURB can dispel myths and improve awareness about substance abuse.
- Digital platforms facilitate outreach to diverse audiences, increasing reach and impact.
- Utilising social media and online campaigns can further amplify prevention messages.
4. Critically discuss the effectiveness of community support systems in combating substance use among young adults.
- Community support encourages healthy relationships and networks that discourage substance use.
- Programs can provide education and resources tailored to local needs and cultures.
- Peer support groups can empower individuals to make healthier choices.
- Family involvement enhances the effectiveness of prevention strategies.
- Community initiatives can raise awareness and reduce stigma associated with seeking help.
