Mubashar Nadeem
Intoxication is one of the most silent, destructive forces undermining the potential of our youth today. Whether it comes in the form of drugs, alcohol, smoking, or other addictive behaviors, intoxication does not discriminate—it slowly erodes the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of individuals, often without them even realizing it. This is why building public awareness, particularly among the youth, is no longer an option—it is a necessity.
The youth represent the most dynamic and vibrant segment of any society. In Pakistan, where a majority of the population is under the age of 30, the potential for national growth, innovation, and transformation lies squarely in the hands of the younger generation. But when this generation is exposed to drugs and harmful substances without the tools to resist them, the result is not only personal tragedy but societal decline.
Addiction begins subtly. A single attempt, a moment of peer pressure, or curiosity can lead to a life-altering habit. And soon, it becomes a cycle—stealing ambition, clarity, health, and purpose. The dreams of becoming a successful professional, artist, athlete, or leader begin to fade. Relationships are destroyed, mental health deteriorates, and in many cases, lives are tragically cut short.
This is not just an individual issue—it is a national concern. The state and society must treat intoxication as a public health and security threat. The emotional and economic cost of addiction is massive: families are torn apart, productivity declines, healthcare systems are burdened, and crime rates increase. No nation can afford to neglect this challenge.
Therefore, awareness campaigns are not just helpful—they are essential. Awareness is the first line of defense against addiction. It educates young people about the risks, equips them to say “no,” and encourages them to seek healthier alternatives. It also breaks the stigma surrounding addiction and helps people speak up and seek help when needed.
The responsibility to raise this awareness does not lie with the government alone. Parents, teachers, religious leaders, influencers, educational institutions, and community organizations all play a vital role. Schools and colleges should integrate awareness programs into their curriculum. Counseling services should be made easily accessible. Local communities must organize regular seminars, awareness walks, and workshops. And most importantly, youth must be given platforms where they feel heard, valued, and empowered.
One of the most powerful tools in this fight is storytelling—real stories of recovery, resistance, and strength. When young people see others like them choosing health over addiction, it inspires change. Media campaigns, documentaries, podcasts, and social media content must humanize the issue while offering hope and solutions.
The slogan “Don’t let intoxication steal your dreams—choose strength, clarity, and a future worth living” should not just be a message; it should be a movement. A movement that reminds every young person that they are capable of so much more than what substances offer. A reminder that their dreams are valid, and their future matters.
In this regard, Republic Policy Think Tank has taken a proactive step through its Youth Empowerment Project, aimed at creating mass awareness and building resilience among young people. This initiative invites young leaders, educators, activists, and professionals to join hands in spreading awareness and offering support. The project emphasizes that youth empowerment is not possible without youth protection—and protecting them from the dangers of intoxication must be a top priority.
The project also works toward engaging policymakers to strengthen legal frameworks that regulate the availability of harmful substances. It calls for stricter enforcement of drug control laws, better rehabilitation services, and increased funding for mental health and youth development programs. A society that protects its youth protects its future.
Moreover, we must create safe, creative, and productive spaces for youth to channel their energy. Sports, arts, entrepreneurship, skills training, and volunteerism are powerful tools that offer purpose and community—two of the strongest antidotes to addiction. When young people are actively engaged in building something meaningful, they are far less likely to fall into destructive patterns.
It is time to make a collective commitment: to raise awareness, to offer help, to build systems of support, and to provide hope. Each one of us has a role to play—whether it’s sharing a message, helping a friend, organizing an event, or simply listening without judgment.
Let’s remind our youth that their value lies not in substances, but in their strength. Let’s empower them to see a future that is free from addiction—a future where dreams are chased with full clarity and purpose.
Join Republic Policy’s Youth Empowerment Project and become a voice for change. Be the reason someone chooses life over addiction. Be the strength behind someone’s clarity. Because the future of Pakistan depends on the choices we make today—for ourselves and for generations to come.
