As the world observes International Youth Day on Wednesday, August 12, the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) Youth Arm will mark the occasion by bringing together young people and a panel of experts to discuss the issue of addiction among young people.

The panel discussion will be held under the theme “Healthy Choices, Strong Futures: Addressing Addiction Among Young People and Its Impact on the Workplace.”

The forum is being undertaken with support from UNI Americas, which has identified the growing prevalence of alcohol, drug and gambling addiction as key priority areas for the region. The discussion is also in keeping with the Youth Arm’s efforts to engage young people on issues that affect their personal lives, employment and long-term wellbeing.

Speaking during an interview on ABS Television, ABWU Youth Arm Vice President Charles Brown said the upcoming discussion is particularly important because addiction extends far beyond the individual, affecting relationships, finances and workplace performance.

Assistant Public Relations Officer of the Youth Arm, Kimberly Gordon, added that the panel discussion is intended to provide participants with access to expert perspectives and practical information to help them make healthier choices.

Panellists include Dr. Sequoyah Survia, a licensed clinical social worker; Olson Browne, Acting Human Resources Manager at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre; and Fernando Samuel, Senior Industrial Relations Officer at the ABWU.

The Youth Arm notes that the discussion is intended to move beyond raising awareness and encourage practical conversations about prevention, support and recovery.

The discussion will also explore the wider impact of addiction on workplaces, including absenteeism, reduced productivity, workplace accidents, mental health concerns and employment instability.

The ABWU Youth Arm hopes the initiative will promote healthier lifestyle choices and responsible decision-making while strengthening dialogue among young people, healthcare professionals, employers and labour representatives.

The panel discussion will take place from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m via the ABWU’s Facebook page and Zoom.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: ABWU Youth Arm Marks International Youth Day with Panel Discussion on Addiction and the Workplace.