The Department of Community Development in Abu Dhabi (DCD) said it is looking to intensify efforts to combat drugs through collaborations with the civic sector, calling it a key priority for the entity.
The message was conveyed on International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, which is observed on June 26 each year. This year’s theme is “Committed to our Homeland. Drugs are a Crime”.
Dr. Bushra Al Mulla, Executive Director of the Community Development Sector at the DCD in Abu Dhabi, reached out to the community for support in fighting against the scourge, saying that adolescence is a critical time for preventing drug addiction. She highlighted the critical role parents could play in in preventing substance abuse among youth, urging them to pay adequate attention to their children and help them deal with strong feelings, emotions, stress; monitor them on social media and other matters, and educate them about the danger of drugs.
Al Mulla said that DCD conducts studies and run surveys and works to enhance the quality of life in Abu Dhabi through identifying and addressing needs and aspirations of community members. Al Mulla also expressed appreciation for the government and individual institutions in the country that have adopted various initiatives to spreading awareness about the consequences of substance abuse and how to prevent or avoid addiction. She also praised the proactive role of the police in combating drugs and drug trafficking through unique methods that ensure utmost security and safety of the community.
DCD in partnership with relevant government and private entities supports these efforts and identifies appropriate ways to deal with cases of addiction, such as hospitalization and rehabilitation.