Preventing Pakistani youth from suicide and drugs

In 2025, under the URAAN Project, AWARD Pakistan continued its commitment to protecting young people from drug addiction, poor mental health, and social exclusion by delivering targeted awareness and counselling interventions. Building on earlier successes, the project focused on identifying at-risk youth and providing them with timely guidance, positive engagement, and practical pathways toward a healthier and more purposeful life.

During this period, AWARD conducted a situational analysis to better understand the social, psychological, and environmental factors contributing to drug use and emotional distress among youth. The findings highlighted a strong link between unemployment, lack of structured activities, peer pressure, and declining mental well-being. Based on this analysis, AWARD designed and implemented a series of five awareness seminars focusing on drug addiction prevention, mental health well-being, and social inclusion.

A total of five seminars were conducted, two in one district and three in another, reaching 167 young participants, including 100 males and 67 females. These sessions provided a safe and supportive environment where youth were encouraged to openly discuss stress, addiction, anxiety, depression, and the challenges they face in daily life. Trained facilitators guided discussions on coping strategies, emotional resilience, healthy relationships, and the importance of engaging in positive social and physical activities.

The seminars emphasised practical steps youth can take to protect their mental health, such as maintaining routines, seeking peer and family support, participating in sports and community activities, and avoiding environments that promote drug use. Participants also received counselling on recognising early signs of addiction and understanding where to seek help when needed.

As a direct outcome of these interventions, 123 participants were successfully connected with various government and private institutes offering free vocational, educational, and skill-based opportunities. By linking youth with constructive learning and engagement options, the project aimed to reduce idle time and minimise the risk of turning toward drugs or other harmful behaviours. Many participants expressed renewed motivation and relief after being guided toward opportunities that gave them direction and hope.

The 2025 activities under the URAAN Project reaffirm that early intervention, counselling, and positive engagement are critical in preventing drug addiction and improving youth mental health. Through awareness, inclusion, and access to meaningful opportunities, AWARD Pakistan continues to empower young people to make healthy choices and build resilient futures.

With continued support, AWARD remains committed to expanding the URAAN Project to reach more vulnerable youth and strengthen a culture of mental well-being, purpose, and hope across communities.