In her statement, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tuğçe Toker Uğurlu from the Department of Psychiatry said: “According to World Health Organization data, substance addiction is a chronic public health problem with biological, psychological, and social dimensions that poses a global threat to societies. Success in combating this global issue depends on the simultaneous and coordinated implementation of efforts to prevent illegal substances from reaching society, along with treatment, rehabilitation, and reintegration processes. The work carried out at the Pamukkale University Alcohol and Substance Addiction Application and Research Center and AMATEM Clinic demonstrates that addiction is not merely a medical detoxification process; it is a multidimensional disease that must be addressed with its biological, psychological, and social aspects. Therefore, the fight against addiction requires strong cooperation not only among healthcare institutions but also security units, non-governmental organizations, and rehabilitation services. In this context, our joint work with the Police Department and the Narcotics Crime Investigation Unit is of great importance in reducing the accessibility of drugs. While law enforcement agencies play a key role in reducing supply in the field, scientific and clinical studies conducted within AMATEM aim to reduce individual demand, strengthen treatment processes, and reintegrate addicted individuals into healthy life.”

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tuğçe Toker Uğurlu: “Addiction is a preventable and treatable brain disease.”

Emphasizing the importance of cooperation with the Turkish Green Crescent and YEDAM in strengthening the social dimension of treatment, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Toker Uğurlu stated that their contributions are highly valuable in enabling individuals to adapt to social life after treatment, supporting outpatient and inpatient rehabilitation processes, and reducing the risk of relapse.

Stating that evidence-based treatment methods are applied in accordance with international scientific guidelines at the AMATEM clinic, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tuğçe Toker Uğurlu continued: “Pharmacological treatments are supported by motivational approaches, group therapies, and psychodrama practices. Through these methods, it is aimed to improve patients’ impulse control, emotional awareness, and social functioning skills. At the same time, past traumatic experiences, treatment adherence issues, and resistance to change can be addressed in safe therapeutic environments. Addiction is a preventable and treatable brain disease. Through comprehensive treatment programs conducted in the light of scientific data and strong inter-institutional cooperation, many individuals are able to return to a healthy and productive life. As Pamukkale University AMATEM, we will continue with determination to stand by addicted individuals and their families, to carry out preventive mental health studies, and to work in cooperation with all stakeholders in the fight against addiction in line with national and international scientific guidelines.”