Ibn Haldun University's Guidance and Psychological Counseling Research and Application Center (REDAM) was represented at the District Coordination Council Meeting on Combating Addiction, held on June 4, 2026, under the coordination of the Başakşehir District Governorship. Psychological Counselor Zeynep Esra Yılmaz attended on behalf of REDAM.
The meeting brought together representatives from public institutions, local governments, health organizations, civil society organizations, and universities. Participants reviewed ongoing efforts in the field of addiction prevention and explored opportunities for inter-institutional cooperation.
It was emphasized that addiction extends beyond substance use, with digital addiction, social media addiction, gambling addiction, and other behavioral addictions highlighted as significant risk areas today. Particular attention was drawn to the importance of expanding protective and preventive programs targeting children, youth, and families.
Participating institutions shared their current activities, and updated information was provided on treatment and rehabilitation services in the field of addiction. In this context, participants were informed about the rehabilitation services being planned at İstanbul Başakşehir Çam and Sakura City Hospital, as well as addiction rehabilitation initiatives carried out by the Ministry of Health.
In REDAM's remarks, it was stated that combating addiction goes beyond treatment processes — protective mental health work, awareness campaigns, and educational programs are equally essential. It was also underscored that universities are important stakeholders in addiction prevention through their academic knowledge, research capacity, and community outreach activities.
REDAM expressed its readiness to carry out training sessions, seminars, workshops, and awareness activities in collaboration with relevant public institutions and civil society organizations in the coming period, and to contribute to protective mental health efforts targeting students and various segments of the public.
The meeting concluded with an assessment of ways to strengthen inter-institutional cooperation and expand joint efforts in combating addiction.
