Alumni Mental Health Month Part Three: Behavior and Chemical Addiction

As part of the ongoing Mental Health Awareness Month activities, the Alumni Directorate organized an engaging and eye-opening session on Behavior and Chemical Addiction, held virtually and attended by 356 participants. The session was facilitated by Cleopa Njiru, a seasoned addiction counselor and recovery coach with extensive experience working with individuals struggling with substance use and behavioral dependencies.

Cleopa began the session by defining addiction as a chronic brain condition characterized by compulsive engagement in rewarding stimuli, despite adverse consequences. He explained that addiction is not limited to substances like drugs or alcohol but also includes behavioral addictions such as gambling, gaming, social media overuse, and pornography. Understanding Addiction: Participants were educated on how addiction hijacks the brain’s reward system, leading to dependency and impaired decision-making.

Types of Addiction:

Chemical Addiction: Includes alcohol, tobacco, prescription medication misuse, and illegal substances.

Behavioral Addiction: Includes excessive internet use, gambling, sex, and compulsive eating.

Warning Signs: These include secrecy, withdrawal from family and friends, changes in sleep and appetite, financial issues, and declining academic or work performance. Some of the root Causes Cleopa highlighted common triggers such as childhood trauma, peer pressure, mental health disorders, and environmental stressors.

Recovery and Intervention Strategies:

• Early Detection: He urged participants to be alert to behavioral changes in themselves or loved ones and intervene early.
• Support Systems: Emphasis was placed on the importance of accountability partners, peer support groups, and professional counseling.
• Lifestyle Changes: Cleopa encouraged replacing addictive behaviors with healthy alternatives such as physical activity, volunteering, and artistic expression.
• Stigma Reduction: Participants were reminded that addiction is a health condition—not a moral failure—and should be treated with empathy and compassion.

The session included a Q&A segment where participants expressed concerns, shared personal experiences, and sought advice on how to support affected friends or family members.

The Alumni Directorate extends heartfelt gratitude to all alumni who actively participated in the three webinars held during Mental Health Awareness Month. Your engagement and support made the initiative was success.