NCSA announces 2024 STRONG Programme

he National Council on Substance Abuse (NCSA) is continuing its Succeeding Through Rehabilitative Opportunities Group (STRONG) Programme, an initiative designed to address marijuana use among adolescents. This year, the programme will commence on Tuesday, July 16.

The ongoing prevalence of marijuana use as a primary presenting problem among adolescent clients has been a significant finding in the Council’s BARDIN reports, underscoring the need for targeted interventions like STRONG.

The STRONG Programme provides 10 comprehensive group therapy sessions that tackle critical areas such as drug refusal skills, enhancing social support networks, problem-solving, anger awareness and management, and coping with cravings and urges. By addressing these key issues, the programme aims to equip adolescents with the tools they need to overcome substance use challenges.

Recognising that substance use and abuse impact not just the individual but also their families and communities, the STRONG Programme adopts a holistic approach. This year, a dedicated parent and family support component will be included. These sessions aim to help parents understand drug use among their children, improve their parenting skills, and equip them with strategies to support their children in overcoming substance use.

Katrina Lewis and Rico Antoine will facilitate the adolescent sessions, while Sharon Moaze will lead the parent sessions. The parent sessions will begin the week of July 16 and will consist of 12 weekly sessions, primarily held online with some face-to-face meetings at the NCSA.

As we continue to refine and expand the STRONG Programme, we remain committed to incorporating additional components to enhance its holistic nature. Supporting our adolescents is of paramount importance, as they are the future leaders, decision-makers, and contributing citizens of our society. Providing positive, healthy alternatives for engagement within communities is essential, especially during the summer months when many adolescents lack adequate supervision.

We urge families, schools, and community organisations to offer well-supervised and organised activities at little to no cost to ensure maximum participation. Such initiatives are crucial in fostering a supportive environment for our youth. (PR)