A guest lecture titled “Choose Life, Not High: Making Informed Choices in College” was held on 8th August 2025 from 9:15 am to 10:15 am for the Undergraduate and Postgraduate Psychology students. The session was organized to raise awareness about substance use, its risks, and healthy decision-making during the college years.
The speaker, Dr. Pallavi V. Dhakne (Churi), Consulting Psychologist with over 17 years of clinical experience in psychiatry, was introduced by Ms. Shannon. Dr. Pallavi discussed various myths surrounding alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis, explaining their harmful effects on physical and mental health. She highlighted the heightened risk of addiction before the age of 21, the social and psychological consequences of substance abuse, and the importance of developing healthy coping skills.
The talk also addressed peer pressure, strategies to say “no,” and available support systems for those struggling with substance use. Dr. Pallavi encouraged students to make evidence-based choices and prioritise their health and well-being.
The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Durva Khandekarpar, who expressed gratitude to the speaker for her valuable insights and to the students for their active participation.
Overall, the talk was informative and thought-provoking, helping students reflect on the importance of making informed, healthy choices during their formative years.