Drop-in Centers: Eslamshahr – Shush – Janat Abad

Introduction:

According to recent observations and reports, methamphetamine (commonly known as “shisheh” in Iran) has increasingly replaced traditional narcotics such as opium, heroin, and others. Given the synthetic nature of this substance and its highly stimulating effects, it is essential to take informed and proactive measures in response.

The harmful consequences of methamphetamine use, along with alarming statistics from related clinics regarding its irreversible effects, serve as a warning signal to accelerate efforts in preventing future risks.

Furthermore, satellite media outlets today are primarily driven by profit and often promote addiction treatment products solely for commercial gain. Certain companies exploit this situation by advertising medications for addiction recovery, targeting families desperate to save their children from substance dependence. This report aims to provide information on the adverse effects of methamphetamine and raise awareness among families to avoid falling for misleading satellite advertisements related to addiction treatment.

Class Objectives:

⦁ Familiarization with addictive substances and their types
⦁ Effects of opioid and hallucinogenic drug use
⦁ Harms caused by the misuse of opioids and hallucinogens
⦁ Types of counterfeit medications widely advertised on satellite channels with large followings

The purpose of this class Is to provide brief awareness to at-risk families and then educate them about counterfeit addiction treatment products that are heavily promoted and generate significant profits for manufacturing companies.

Educational Session Report – Janat Abad DIC Center:

The report from the educational session at the Janat Abad Drop-in Center indicated that the lasting and irreversible effects of methamphetamine (“shisheh”) have raised serious concerns in the community. Given the rising number of individuals affected by this substance, it can be concluded that if the issue is not taken seriously, the number of users will continue to grow.

Another part of the report focused on satellite advertisements promoting addiction treatment products. With the support of the clinical supervisor and access to medical information, it was revealed that these advertised treatments not only lack positive effects but some of the packages contain non-standard and harmful substances. Users have reported gastrointestinal issues after consumption.

Educational Session Content – DIC Shush Center:

Reports from this center include findings from psychological consultations with individuals who use methamphetamine (“shisheh”). It was noted that after consumption, these individuals often go extended periods without food, rest, or proper care, remaining in an abnormal state.

This session also included awareness-raising about the dangers of using addiction treatment products advertised on satellite channels. It was emphasized that these products are sold at high prices solely for the profit of distributing companies. Not only do they lack positive effects, but many contain harmful chemical combinations that lead to additional health problems. Manufacturers often mix sedatives and morphine into these products and market them as addiction treatments. As a result, users may become dependent on these very medications over time.

Educational Session Content – DIC Eslamshahr Center:

An educational session focused on addiction and its consequences, as well as the role of satellite media in promoting counterfeit addiction treatment products, was held on 27 March 2009 (1388/1/7) at the DIC Eslamshahr Center. The session lasted four hours and was delivered in two parts.

Key topics discussed included:

1. Introduction to addictive substances and their types
2. Effects of opioid and hallucinogenic drug use
3. Harms resulting from the misuse of opioids and hallucinogens
4. Types of counterfeit medications widely advertised on satellite channels with large followings

The goal of this session was to provide brief awareness to at-risk families and then educate them about the widespread promotion of counterfeit addiction treatments, which generate significant profits for manufacturing companies.

Proposal:

Given the growing trend in social harm reduction, it is evident that implementing programs in this field yields positive outcomes. Moreover, with the increasing public awareness regarding addiction and methods of prevention, it is essential to expand access to such information and ensure that relevant individuals are equipped to interpret and apply it effectively.

Our recommendation for advancing this initiative is to focus on preventive measures and efforts to curb social deviations related to addiction. This includes launching widespread domestic campaigns aimed at identifying potential risk factors and creating a safe and supportive environment for individuals vulnerable to this issue. One of the most influential contributors to the emergence of such problems is an unstable and insecure environment—both within families and in society at large.