On National Anti-Drug Addiction Day, it's crucial to highlight the growing challenge of substance abuse in India. In India, commonly used and easily accessible drugs include cannabis (bhang, ganja, charas), heroin (chitta), opium, prescription drugs (painkillers, sedatives), alcohol, tobacco, etc.

There is a devastating impact of heroin, commonly referred to as 'chitta' in regions like Punjab and Jammu. It's often sold at affordable prices, making it readily accessible to vulnerable populations, including young adults and adolescents. The ease with which drugs like 'chitta' are accessible has created an alarming addiction crisis, affecting countless individuals and their families.

Recovery from drug addiction is a monumental achievement, but the battle doesn’t end with the completion of a rehab program. The post-recovery phase is often the most challenging. Returning home to environments where drugs like 'chitta' are easily available poses a significant risk of relapse.

So, how can someone who has completed a drug abuse recovery program thrive in such high-risk settings?

Building Resilience Through Mental Health Support

Substance abuse recovery is a complex and often arduous journey that involves much more than just overcoming physical dependence on drugs or alcohol. While detoxification and physical rehabilitation are critical first steps, sustaining long-term sobriety requires addressing the profound mental and emotional impacts of addiction since substance abuse and mental health are deeply interconnected. Many individuals who struggle with addiction may also face underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), etc.

The psychological impact of addiction can leave an individual vulnerable to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Regular therapy and counselling can help them manage their emotions and reduce the temptation to relapse. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) are especially effective in helping individuals cope with cravings and triggers.

This is why, rehabilitation centres ensure post-recovery follow-up sessions for continued psychological support and post-recovery assistance.

Addressing Trauma

Many individuals who struggle with addiction may have experienced trauma, whether it’s childhood abuse, violence, or other significant emotional upheavals. Unresolved trauma can act as a persistent emotional burden, driving individuals toward substance use as a way to numb their pain. By addressing the root causes of trauma through therapy, individuals can begin to heal and move forward in their recovery journey with a sense of closure and emotional freedom.

Practicing Mindfulness and Stress Management

Stress is a major trigger for relapse, especially in environments where drugs are easily accessible. Emotions like stress, anxiety, sadness, and anger can all serve as powerful triggers for substance use. Incorporating mindfulness practices like meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises can help recovering individuals manage stress and anxiety. They can be effective in helping the person shift focus from distressing thoughts to calming practices. They help cultivate awareness of one’s thoughts and feelings, allowing for better regulation of emotional responses to stress.

By addressing mental health concerns through therapy and by practicing mindfulness-based exercises, individuals can learn to identify and cope with these emotional triggers in healthier ways.

Physical Wellness

Exercise, in particular, has been shown to reduce cravings and improve mood by releasing endorphins—natural mood-enhancing chemicals in the brain. Regular physical activity can also help reduce anxiety and depression.

Developing Strong Support Systems

Having a solid social network is crucial for anyone trying to maintain sobriety. Friends, family, and loved ones can serve as a vital source of support. Engaging loved ones in the recovery process through family therapy can help them understand the challenges of addiction and provide the individual with much-needed emotional backing. Additionally, surrounding oneself with sober peers or mentors who have successfully navigated recovery can be a strong protective factor. These relationships help to reinforce positive behaviors and create an environment of accountability and encouragement.

Relapse Prevention Planning

A detailed relapse prevention plan should be a key part of the post-recovery process. This plan can help individuals identify personal triggers (such as stress, certain places, or social settings) and develop coping strategies to manage them effectively. Another important aspect of relapse prevention is having an emergency action plan in place.

When drugs are readily available in one's home environment, it’s vital to establish boundaries. This could mean avoiding certain social circles, staying away from known drug hotspots, or moving to a new location if feasible. Changing one’s physical environment, if possible, can significantly reduce the chances of encountering triggers.

Developing New and Healthy Habits

Boredom and a lack of purpose can often lead to relapse. Individuals need to cultivate new hobbies and interests that provide meaning and fulfillment. Engaging in creative pursuits, volunteering, or taking up new courses can help reduce idle time and provide a positive focus

Moreover, communities should invest in rehabilitation centers, counseling programs, and post-recovery support systems to help individuals reintegrate into society.

National Anti-Drug Addiction Day reminds us that overcoming addiction is not just about detoxifying the body but also about healing the mind. Mental health support, strong social systems, and relapse prevention strategies are essential for maintaining sobriety, especially in high-risk environments.

By integrating psychological therapies, wellness practices, and strong support systems, individuals can not only overcome addiction but also lead fulfilling, meaningful lives in recovery. With continuous support and the right interventions, it is possible for recovering individuals to navigate environments where drugs are prevalent and to reclaim their lives with dignity and hope.

The World Health Organization estimates that 10 percent (190 million) of reproductive-age women worldwide suffer from endometriosis.

The chronic and complex menstrual disease that affects many women is characterized by severe pain during menstruation, heavy menstrual bleeding, chronic pelvic pain (pain that does not go away when the menstrual cycle ends), infertility, and abdominal bloating and nausea.

The incurable condition poses a significant challenge to women as it affects their personal and professional lives, relationships, and fertility, among others, due to persistent pain and fatigue.

The diagnosis also gets delayed, as endometriosis is often confused with PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, due to some overlapping symptoms like irregular menstrual periods. The symptoms may continue to persist or recur after treatment is initiated.

In a powerful statement resonating with millions worldwide, Indian American author and television host Padma Lakshmi has shared her experience with the condition.

Opening about her personal battle with endometriosis, the 55-year-old, Co-founder of Endometriosis Foundation of America, said that the condition made her understand how strong she is and called for greater awareness and self-advocacy among women.

"Endometriosis has taught me that I should always listen to my body. Pain is your body's way of telling you something is wrong,” said Lakshmi, in a media post on social media platform Instagram.

"Through my struggles with endometriosis, I've learned that, actually, I have a very high threshold for pain, that I may be stronger than I know, but that I shouldn't always need to be,” PopSugar quoted her as saying.

Lakshmi noted that it is now her life's mission "to advocate for my own health, and also to advocate for all women with endometriosis."

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. These tissues commonly develop on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the pelvic lining.

Endometriosis affects many women and can impact their daily lives, including their ability to work comfortably. Many women continue their professional responsibilities despite experiencing severe discomfort, fatigue, and pain.

Raising awareness about the condition and encouraging supportive workplaces can help women manage both their health and career more effectively.

Since it is a progressive disorder, timely intervention remains key to managing it. In many cases, women live with symptoms for several years before receiving the correct diagnosis, which can delay treatment and affect their quality of life.

Treating Endometriosis

Treatment is particularly based on the severity of symptoms. Women will be advised lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, stress management, and an anti-inflammatory diet. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may help reduce discomfort.

Hormonal therapies may also be used to control symptoms. Some women will be advised to undergo laparoscopy to remove endometriotic cysts.

Minimally invasive surgery can help remove lesions and restore pelvic anatomy, which may also improve fertility in some cases. In advanced cases, surgery can be recommended to women.

In a shocking incident, a woman contracted the herpes virus after using shared lipstick samples at a cosmetic store, raising concerns about makeup hygiene.

The incident highlights the risks involved in trying products that come into direct contact with the skin and are shared with a lot of people.

Also Read: World Autism Awareness Day 2026: Can Cell Therapy Be The Future Of Autism Treatment?

What Is Herpes?

The herpes simplex virus (HSV) is very common, and the infection is lifelong. But the symptoms can come and go over different periods of life. Many people never get any symptoms linked to their infection.

The common virus, carried by up to 50 to 80 percent of adults, can cause painful blisters or ulcers. It primarily spreads by skin-to-skin contact. It is treatable but not curable.

There are two types of herpes simplex virus: HSV-1 and HSV-2.

HSV- 1 is the most common and usually spreads by oral contact. It causes infections in or around the mouth (such as oral herpes or cold sores), as well as genital herpes.

Common oral herpes symptoms include

• blisters (cold sores)
• open sores (ulcers) in or around the mouth or lips.

HSV-2 generally spreads by sexual contact and causes genital herpes.

Its symptoms include painful

• bumps,
• blisters,
• open sores (ulcers) around the genitals or anus.

How Makeup Testers Can Spread Infection

Experts warned that makeup testers can become a breeding ground for germs. The repeated use of the open samples can spur their growth and can then spread by “double-dipping” — reusing an applicator after touching the skin. This can transfer viruses and bacteria between users.

“You can absolutely get a herpes infection from a makeup tester," Dr. Whitney Bowe, a dermatologist in New York City, told TODAY. "The more ‘double dipping’ that occurs, the higher the chance of spreading viruses or bacteria at a makeup counter.”

A 2010 study by researchers from Rowan University in New Jersey found that cosmetic samples harbored strep, E.coli, and staph.

For two years, the team examined makeup testers at makeup counters, specialty stores, and drug stores. They found that Saturday is the busiest day of the week, and 100 percent of the samples carried some sort of germ.

How To Stay Safe?

To reduce the risk of infection, experts recommend:

• Much like the toothbrush, personal cosmetics and cosmetic brushes must not be shared.
• Wash and dry your brushes regularly to avoid bacterial growth.
• Avoid applying testers directly to your lips or skin
• Use disposable applicators
• Test products on your hand rather than your face
• Avoid using testers if you have cuts, chapped lips, or active infections.

April 2 is celebrated worldwide as “Autism Awareness Day” and April as Autism month to create awareness and promote inclusivity and acceptance in society for individuals with autism.

So what exactly is Autism, and why do we need to create a culture of awareness and acceptance?

As per DSM V (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) criteria, in simple terms, there is poor eye contact, impaired social communication skills, repetitive patterns (certain movements or fixation on certain toys, objects), difficulties with sensory processing - extreme sensitivity to sensory inputs (dislike loud noises, sensitive to touch), etc.

As a child, these individuals may not respond to name-calling, have poor eye contact/lack gestures like pointing, etc., lack imagination in play, and may not be able to relate and respond to the emotions of others. They have set routines and dislike changes to their routines. All this can cause significant disruption to their day-to-day functioning.

This year’s theme of -Autism and Humanity- Every Life has Value” reiterates the need for inclusion of autism, ensuring equitable representation of these individuals. Ensuring that society not only recognizes them but also treats them with equal respect and dignity.

Educational Support and Inclusive Workplace

Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) was one of the Government's flagship programs, along with Action for Autism, to disseminate information in schools regarding inclusive education for autism. Education is a key foundation to ensure children with autism get suitable opportunities as adults. Special educators, with additional support in schools, can go a long way in ensuring their potential is maximized.

Many IT giants like Microsoft, Google, and SAP encourage tapping the potential of individuals with autism and their exceptional skills. In our country, organizations and NGOs, including Action for Autism, offer training for future employment opportunities.

There is a spectrum of Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD) known as Asperger’s syndrome, and these individuals have normal to above average intelligence and can have some exceptional skills, and the world includes some living examples of these with a higher IQ, some of whom are the most successful and famous personalities. Even on the other end of the spectrum, autistic individuals have exceptional skills, some of which include great attention to detail, creativity, problem-solving, and lateral out-of-the-box thinking.

Options for flexible working hours (part-time), understanding their need for routines, and explaining them beforehand regarding important changes to schedules can help them adapt better to an otherwise challenging workplace.

The Need For Sensitization

Understanding individuals with autism may need little extra support, being a little flexible with time deadlines, giving simple instructions, especially written/visual ones, and allowing them time to overcome their communication barriers can go a long way in ensuring they feel heard and valued like anyone else in the workplace.

Sensitization of all major organization employees to foster a culture of acceptance and awareness, and an accessible work environment, is the need of the hour. Autistic individuals do well in a variety of job profiles, including IT, technology, finance, art and creativity, and administration.

Environmental modifications like background noise cancellation with headphones help those with sensory processing issues. At the end of the day, none of us is perfect, it's recognizing our special skills and strengthening them.

Possibilities are endless if we wish to encourage and make these individuals heard. So, let’s carry the Autism Awareness Day beyond a mere day of awareness and light it up blue. Let’s value and acknowledge them being different, but also empower them to act on their special skills to earn them a dignified place in society and the workplace.