Schools counselors across the country have a vital role in addressing students?’ problems especially when it came to narcotics addiction and trafficking, said specialists on Saturday. Mariam Al-Aamiri, an intermediate school counselor, told KUNA that students were under a tremendous amount of pressure and they often fall prey to drug traffickers. She noted that with diligent work, a counselor could become the very first line of defense for students against the evils of narcotics. Whether it was familial disputes, lack of psychiatric well-being, or plain curiosity, all these factors could become red flags that counselors must be recognized to prevent damage, Al-Aamiri affirmed. Parents and families are equally responsible for the students?’ welfare, and if there were any problems, it should be dealt with discretely and professionally, she added. Similarly, Ebtisam Al-Majed, senior school counselor at another intermediate school, affirmed that prevention was far better than focusing on finding the cure. Awareness campaigns must begin from schools themselves, she stressed, saying that it was important to report suspicious cases of substance abuse and handle the situation with utmost care. When seeking treatment, students and their guardians are assured privacy, revealed Al-Majed, adding that providing humane treatment and a helping hand was key to a successful recuperation

Source: Kuwait News Agency