Sosialisasi Pencegahan Penyalahgunaan Narkoba di Lingkungan Sekolah Menengah Atas (SMA) Ditinjau dari Aspek Kesehatan di Kota Palembang

Abstract

The abuse of narcotics, psychotropics, and addictive substances (drugs) poses a serious threat among adolescents, including high school students in Palembang City, where this age group is considered highly vulnerable. From a health perspective, drug abuse has significant negative impacts on both physical and mental well-being, including impaired brain function, damage to vital organs, decreased immunity, and mental health disorders such as depression and psychosis. Therefore, effective primary prevention efforts are essential, particularly through health-based educational outreach. This community service activity aims to enhance the knowledge and awareness of high school students in Palembang regarding the dangers of drugs, while also promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors and refusal skills to resist drug offers. The outreach was conducted using interactive educational methods, including seminars, group discussions, and the distribution of informative materials such as leaflets and posters. The content focused on the mechanisms of drug action in the body, as well as short- and long-term physiological and psychological effects. Pre-test and post-test evaluations were used to measure knowledge improvement. The program was implemented in selected high schools located in areas with high drug vulnerability. The results showed a significant increase in students’ knowledge scores, along with improved understanding of the risks of infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis, mental disorders, and decreased quality of life. Additionally, students demonstrated a stronger commitment to avoiding drugs and adopting healthier lifestyles.