Reverend Hemraj Mangal, the executive director of Adult and Teen Challenge (Fiji), recently shared his insights on the limitations of medical interventions in drug addiction recovery. Speaking to The Fiji Times, he highlighted that while medical help can assist individuals in overcoming their addiction temporarily, it often fails to eliminate the underlying cravings, leading many to relapse into their previous habits.
Mangal emphasized that statistics from around the world indicate that medical treatment alone does not equip individuals with the necessary tools to permanently break free from addiction. He advocates for a comprehensive program that addresses the root causes of addiction, stating, “We need to have a program that kills the craving, the desire for that drug in a person.”
A significant challenge, according to Mangal, is the widespread belief that once an individual struggles with addiction, they remain an addict for life. He urges society to recognize that recovery is possible and advocates for a national awareness campaign to spread hope. “We want to educate the whole nation that there is always hope for a person who has been addicted, to come out of it,” he affirmed.
Mangal pointed out the ongoing crisis in Fiji regarding drug addiction, highlighting the disconnect between discussions of the issue and actionable solutions. He references St. Giles, a mental health facility, as an example of the urgent need for effective responses to this dire situation.
Despite the challenges, Mangal remains optimistic about the potential for change. He invites the community to join forces with Adult and Teen Challenge, stating, “Let’s not just talk about it, but let’s come together… to support us so we can have more and more lives changed and transformed.”
In summary, Reverend Mangal’s insights shed light on the complexities of drug addiction recovery, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach beyond medical intervention. His encouraging message of hope serves as a beacon for those battling addiction, reaffirming that with the right support and community involvement, transformation is within reach.
This optimistic perspective reminds us that addressing addiction is not solely about treatment; it encompasses understanding, education, and community support.
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