The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has highlighted how District De-Addiction Centres (DDCs) are helping young people recover from substance use and mental health challenges. A case documented from Assam shows how one beneficiary rebuilt his life through structured treatment and guidance after hitting a personal crisis.
Simhon, a 26-year-old from Karbi Anglong district in Assam belonging to a Scheduled Tribe community, was educated till intermediate level and had once dreamed of joining the police force. Yet depression and negative influences from peers pushed him towards substance use, which derailed his education and left him unemployed despite his family’s stable financial standing.
What the DDAC provided
On 19 May 2026, Simhon approached the Integrated Society for Development, a Grant-in-Aid Centre operating as a DDAC in Karbi Anglong. The Centre offered him a combination of services:
- Medication and medical supervision
- Counselling sessions for mental health support
- Yoga and meditation practices
- Guidance on overcoming substance dependence
- Vocational guidance for future employment
- Regular follow-up and motivation to stay on track
The Centre also worked with him on setting realistic goals, understanding the need for financial independence, and mapping out concrete steps towards employment.
What this means for you
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use or depression, DDCs across India can provide free or subsidised treatment without requiring you to have money upfront. The approach combines medical care with counselling and practical job training, addressing both the addiction itself and your ability to move forward in life. Simhon’s case shows that recovery is possible even when addiction seems to have taken over, and that structured support can help restore lost confidence and redirect you towards your original goals and ambitions.