Bridging Perspectives: Science, faith, and the challenges in treating substance abuse and cardiac diseases: Dr Sushil
STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: Continue with relentless drive for spreading awareness and lending a helping hand to needy ones Head Department of Cardiology GMCH Jammu Dr Sushil Sharma held a day long cardiac awareness cum health check up camp at Udas Marg Sanstha , R S Pura Jammu with main emphasis on fostering a healthy and cardiac friendly , substance abuse free lifestyle so as to reduce morbidity and socioeconomic burden.
While interacting with the people Dr Sushil stated, “Science and religion, two domains often perceived as opposites, offer unique perspectives on understanding and addressing substance abuse and its treatment. Substance abuse is a complex issue influenced by biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. The integration of science and religion can provide a comprehensive approach to tackling this challenge. Science, grounded in empirical evidence and research, views substance abuse as a medical condition. Many faith traditions see addiction as a manifestation of spiritual disconnection or moral failing, emphasizing repentance, forgiveness, and reconnection with a higher power. Religious communities offer support networks that foster a sense of belonging and purpose. Programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), with its foundation in spirituality and the Twelve Steps, highlight the transformative power of surrendering to a higher power and seeking communal support. Despite the contributions of both science and religion, several challenges arise in their integration for substance abuse treatment. One significant challenge is the stigma associated with addiction. Scientific perspectives advocate for viewing addiction as a disease rather than a moral failing, yet societal and religious attitudes often perpetuate shame and guilt. Healthcare providers and religious leaders must work together to bridge gaps in understanding and create holistic care models. Training programs that educate religious leaders on the scientific basis of addiction and healthcare providers on the spiritual needs of patients can foster this collaboration.”
He elaborated that Science and religion both play vital roles in addressing human suffering.
“By fostering collaboration across disciplines, society can better address complex issues like substance abuse and cardiac diseases. Science and religion often offer distinct yet complementary perspectives in addressing challenges such as substance abuse treatment. Science focuses on evidence-based approaches, such as pharmacological interventions, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and lifestyle modifications, to help individuals recover from addiction. Religion, on the other hand, may provide spiritual guidance, emotional support, and a sense of community that reinforces resilience and purpose. Together, these perspectives can create a holistic approach to treatment, addressing not just the physical and psychological dimensions of addiction but also the moral and spiritual dilemmas faced by individuals. However, integrating these approaches requires careful consideration of individual beliefs and cultural contexts to ensure that treatment is both effective and respectful,” Dr Sushil said.
He added that Substance abuse significantly increases the risk of cardiac ailments, including arrhythmias, hypertension, and heart failure, due to the toxic effects of substances like alcohol, opioids, and stimulants. The strain on the cardiovascular system from chronic drug use is often exacerbated by neglect of overall health and poor lifestyle choices. Treating addiction effectively can mitigate these risks, but the process is complicated by the physiological damage already incurred. Combining science-based medical treatments to address physical health with the emotional and spiritual support often rooted in religious practices can improve long-term outcomes for individuals battling both addiction and related cardiac conditions, he said.
Management Committee of Udas Marg Sanstha Sh Bhagwan Dass Ji, Guru Mata Bimla Devi, Daya Ram, H R Dogra, Tarsem Raj, Rajkumar and Ashok Skolia appreciated the efforts of Dr Sushil and his team for conducting cardiac awareness cum health checkup camp in their premises and shows their heartfelt gratitude.
Others who were part of this camp includes Dr Venkatesh Yellupu and Dr Dhaneshwer Kapoor. Paramedics and Volunteers includes Kamal Sharma, Raj Kumar, Shubham Sharma, Mukesh Kumar, Rohit Nayyar, Rahul Vaid, Makhan Sharma , Rajinder Singh, Vikas kumar and Nirvair Singh Bali.
