The Youth Development Forum of the PG & Research Department of Social Work, Sacred Heart College (Autonomous), Tirupathur Dt., organized a one-day national workshop, titled "Empathy in Action: Navigating Addiction, Recovery, and Therapeutic Interventions," organized in collaboration with YMCA Boys’ Division, Tirupathur and Redemptive Recovery Care, Red Hills Chennai on 20^th January, 2024 at Thanthai Periyar Hall. The workshop drew 158 students from various colleges and disciplines. The primary objectives included understanding addiction in diverse contexts, exploring treatment modalities, such as drug addiction and alcoholism treatment, substance abuse counseling, detoxification, rehabilitation, family services, relapse prevention, and youth substance abuse. Additionally, the workshop aimed to elucidate the functions of de-addiction centers, raise awareness about the roles of social workers and psychologists, and provide insights into the application of psychotherapy.

Ms. Adline Andrews, a seasoned Program Consultant at Redemptive Recovery Care in Chennai with 23 years of experience, served as the resource person. Her expertise focused on empowering social workers, psychologists and educational institutions in preventing drug use and providing recovery and rehabilitation support. The inaugural address was delivered by Adv. T. Ashok Kumar, Vice Chairman of YMCA Boys’ Division. Rev. Dr. Henry Daniel Ambrose extended a warm welcome to dignitaries and participants and Dr. Christi Anandhan expressed gratitude to their presence.

The workshop facilitated a comprehensive exploration of addiction's psychological, biological, and social dimensions. Attendees gained valuable insights into addiction measurement, the de-addiction process, and the scope of de-addiction centers. Emphasis was placed on challenges during intervention, diverse therapeutic approaches, and the crucial roles of social workers and psychologists in addressing addiction dynamics. Ms. Andrew’s expertise enriched participants with practical tools for effective intervention.

The sessions were highly interactive, allowing students to engage with various case studies. Social work students infused energy through activities, focusing on drug abuse prevention and leading an anti-drug oath. Dr. K. Arockiaraj, Assistant Professor, P.G & Research Dept. of Social Work, and Mr. George Bernardsha, Executive Secretary, YMCA Boys’ Division, efficiently coordinated the workshop, contributing to its success. The P.G & Research Department of Social Work signed MoU with YMCA Boys’ Division for two-year period.