Manipur: Youth Overcomes Addiction with Help of ODIC, Now Building Life as Salesman

A young man from Manipur has triumphed over substance abuse through services operated under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. L. Dile (name changed), a 24-year-old resident of Thoubal district and an OBC beneficiary, was struggling with severe alcohol addiction. This habit, which began due to peer pressure after the 12th grade, evolved into a serious addiction over time, adversely affecting his mental health, education, and family relationships.

Troubled by increasing conflicts at home and social stigma caused by his addiction, L. Dile left his home and began living with a relative in Bishnupur district. Given his condition, the relative took him to the 'Outreach and Drop-In Center' (ODIC) located at Namabol Phoizing Makha in Bishnupur district, where he received timely professional assistance and rehabilitation.

The ODIC provided him with a comprehensive support package, which included home-based detoxification, medical assistance, psychological counseling, behavioral rehabilitation, and family counseling. Additionally, he was provided guidance on managing peer pressure and vocational help to help him repair his social and family ties.

As a result of three months of systematic treatment and continuous support, L. Dile successfully recovered from alcohol addiction. The counseling and rehabilitation process helped him adopt a disciplined lifestyle, while family support provided him with mental stability.

Currently, L. Dile is employed as a salesman in a large store at Kakching Market. He is now earning a good salary and contributing to his household expenses. His experience demonstrates that with timely medical care, counseling, vocational rehabilitation, and family support, it is possible to recover from addiction and return to the mainstream social and economic life.