Utilizing Social Media for Preventing Substance Abuse

Abstract

Drug addiction not only poses serious and dangerous physical and mental health hazards but also leads to numerous social and economic challenges. These challenges include an increase in drug-related crimes such as theft and robbery, unemployment, poverty, and the squandering of significant national resources. Today, addiction has emerged as a widespread phenomenon, severely threatening our societies. To confront this grave issue effectively and mitigate its adverse effects and consequences, it is imperative to resort to innovative tools. Among the most crucial tools that can be effectively utilized in prevention and combating drug abuse is the intelligent and efficient use of mass media, especially ubiquitous social and internet-based platforms. Without proper planning to establish an appropriate connection through media, prevention and anti-drug messages will not reach the viewers, listeners, and readers. Media professionals will also be unable to induce significant changes in the perspectives and beliefs of their audience. The functions of awareness, education, entertainment, advertising, participation, and social mobilization through media and virtual platforms illuminate the necessity of these tools in achieving preventive and responsive goals against substance abuse. Therefore, the objective of this meticulously conducted research is to study the preventive role and functionality of traditional, new, and social media in the context of substance abuse.