By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

An enlightening and interactive awareness session on Conflict, Addiction and Anger Management was conducted for the oratory children of Don Bosco, Nerul, by Dr Aafiya and her dedicated team from YMT Hospital, Kharghar. The session, attended by 54 children, aimed at helping young people understand the relationship between stress, conflict, anger, and addiction, while equipping them with practical strategies to lead healthier and more balanced lives.

The session commenced with a thought-provoking explanation of addiction. Dr Aafiya defined addiction as, “Anything that controls you.” She emphasized that addiction is not limited to harmful substances but can also include habits, behaviours, and thought patterns that gradually take charge of one’s life. She highlighted that unresolved stress often lies at the root of many personal conflicts and may eventually lead individuals down the slippery slope of addiction as they seek an escape from their problems.

The team explained the cycle of conflict to escape, from habit to addiction, illustrating how unmanaged conflicts can push a person towards unhealthy coping mechanisms. Through real-life examples, the children were encouraged to face challenges head-on rather than sweep them under the carpet.

One of the most impactful aspects of the session was the use of creative demonstrations to illustrate the consequences of anger and hurtful actions. In the first activity, a ribbon symbolizing friendship was cut to represent anger. Although the ribbon was later tied together, the knot remained as a visible scar, teaching the children that apologies are important, but certain wounds can leave lasting marks. A second demonstration involved crumpling a sheet of paper and then attempting to smooth it out again. The paper could never return to its original state, reinforcing the lesson that words spoken in anger cannot always be taken back. The third demonstration used a balloon to represent bottled-up emotions. As pressure built up inside the balloon, it eventually burst, highlighting the importance of expressing feelings in healthy and constructive ways.

The central message of the session was that anger must be managed wisely. The children were given simple yet effective strategies: remain silent for a moment when angry, consciously reject addictive behaviours, and speak to a trusted adult or friend rather than keeping emotions locked inside. They were also taught a practical breathing exercise involving counting from one to six while taking deep breaths, allowing time for emotions to settle before reacting.

The session concluded with all 54 participants taking a pledge to stay away from addiction and to support peers who may be struggling. As a gesture of gratitude, the children presented handmade thank-you cards to Dr Aafiya and her team. The programme ended with a group photograph, preserving memories of a meaningful and enriching experience.

Reflecting the spirit of Don Bosco, the session echoed his inspiring words: “It is not enough to love the young; they must know that they are loved.” By guiding the children with patience, compassion, and practical wisdom, Dr Aafiya and her team helped them understand that prevention is better than cure and that learning to manage stress, conflict, and anger can pave the way for a healthier and happier future.

Overall, the session was highly informative, engaging, and transformative, empowering the children with valuable life skills and encouraging them to become responsible, resilient, and emotionally healthy individuals.