A Calling Born from Compassion
Dr. James says his inspiration came from witnessing how addiction damages not only individuals but entire families and communities. “Every person deserves a second chance,” he believes. “Recovery is possible with love, discipline, and proper guidance.” For him, de-addiction is not just about removing substances, it is about restoring identity and purpose.

In an age where addiction is no longer limited to alcohol or drugs but extends to screens, gaming, social media, and silent emotional struggles, one voice from Kutch, Gujarat is working to restore hope. Dr. Evg. Jojo Koruth James, a social worker, has spent over five years serving in the field of de-addiction and rehabilitation. His mission is simple yet powerful: help individuals rediscover their worth, rebuild their lives, and choose discipline over destruction.
What a De-Addiction Centre Really Does

In simple terms, a de-addiction centre: Helps individuals safely withdraw from addictive substances, Provides medical care during recovery, Offers counselling and emotional support, Teaches relapse-prevention skills, Restores broken relationships and Encourages disciplined, healthy living. It is not a place of punishment, it is a place of healing.

The New Face of Addiction
Today’s youth face challenges that go beyond traditional substance abuse. Common struggles include: Mobile and social media addiction, Online gaming dependency, Substance use (alcohol, vaping, drugs), Pornography exposure, Junk food and unhealthy consumption habits and Performance pressure and burnout. Dr. James points out that modern addiction is often silent and digital. It may not be visible but its emotional impact is real.

Why Students Fall Into the Trap
Despite knowing risks, students may turn to addictive habits due to: Stress from exams, Peer pressure, Loneliness, Lack of emotional coping skills and Easy online access. Addiction often begins as a “temporary escape” but gradually becomes a pattern.

Early Warning Signs
Students and parents should watch for: Sudden mood swings, Sleep or appetite changes, Loss of interest in activities, Secrecy and isolation, Financial irregularities and Declining academic focus. Recognising signs early can prevent deeper damage.

Is Recovery Really Possible?
“Yes,” says Dr. James firmly. Recovery becomes real when individuals have: Support groups, Professional counselling, Caring family members, Faith or spiritual grounding and Personal determination. “It’s about one step at a time,” he says. “Freedom is possible.”
Healthy Habits That Protect the Future

Students can build resilience through: Regular exercise, Mindfulness practices, Creative hobbies, Strong friendships, Goal setting and Healthy sleep routines. Discipline, he emphasises, does not limit freedom, it protects it.
A Message to Students

“Your future is shaped more by your daily choices than by your talents,” he says. “Self-control is choosing what you want most over what you want now.” In a world offering instant gratification, his message is clear: Saying “no” today can safeguard tomorrow. And sometimes, the greatest victory is not in achievement
but in choosing freedom over addiction.