On December 3, 2025, a significant and substantial roundtable titled “The Formula for Health: Dialogue with a Psychologist-Physician” took place at the Kostanay Polytechnic Higher College (KGKP). This event was a central component of the broader initiative, “A Step Towards a Healthy Life.” This prophylactic measure, conducted with the participation of healthcare representatives, was aimed at fostering a sustainable motivation for a healthy lifestyle among young people and, crucially, at the comprehensive prevention of psychoactive substance (PAS) use, including narcotics. The meeting’s goal was not only to provide objective information but also to equip students with practical skills and knowledge about where to seek help.

The chief expert and main speaker was Psychologist G.A. Bissimbayeva, representing the Kostanay Regional Center for Mental Health (KGP). The roundtable was attended by students from the following college groups: 1Б-9, 1ТЗ-31, 1А-4, 1ХП-27, 1СТ-9, 2М-14, 2ПО-8, and 2ТЗ-30.

The lecture-dialogue was strictly focused on narcotics prevention, starting with objective data on the medical, social, and legal consequences of their consumption. Psychologist Bissimbayeva G.A. elaborated on the mechanism of narcotic addiction formation, emphasizing the speed and irreversibility of Central Nervous System destruction, the risk of fatal overdose, and the high probability of contracting infectious diseases like HIV, hepatitis, and others, particularly through intravenous use. On a social level, it was highlighted that drug addiction leads to a complete loss of social connections, family conflicts, isolation, and the forfeiture of educational and career prospects. Furthermore, students received comprehensive information regarding the criminal and administrative liability associated with the illegal trafficking and use of narcotic substances.

A key element of prevention was the development of refusal skills against offers to try PAS. The psychologist led a session aimed at strengthening the personal responsibility of young people for their future and health, proposing specific and effective strategies for behavior in situations involving peer pressure. It was emphasized that the best preventative tool is the presence of clear life values and goals (education, career, health), which serve as a powerful protective barrier against involvement with substance use.

The final, yet equally crucial, stage was the introduction of the participants to the work of narcologists (addiction physicians) and the active dispelling of myths about addiction services. Psychologist Bissimbayeva G.A. clearly explained that addiction treatment facilities provide anonymous and qualified assistance, stressing that the decision to seek help is a sign of strength and a desire to return to a healthy, fulfilling life.

The roundtable, conducted in an open and trustworthy dialogue format, allowed not only for the deep informing of students about the dangers of drugs but also motivated them toward a conscious choice in favor of health and a prosperous future, making the “Formula for Health” event a significant contribution to fostering a sustainable anti-drug worldview among the youth of the Kostanay Polytechnic Higher College.

L.K. Dyusekeyeva, Deputy Director for Educational and Extracurricular Work #адал_азамат