Published Article

ABSTRACT

This study examined counseling services for drug-addicted adolescents in tertiary institutions in Nigeria, focusing on their potency and strengthening mechanisms. Drug addiction among adolescents has become a major concern in Nigerian higher institutions due to its negative effects on academic achievement, emotional stability, mental health, and social adjustment. The study explored the concept of counseling services and drug-addicted adolescents, highlighting the important roles counseling services play in prevention, rehabilitation, emotional support, behavioral modification, and academic adjustment. The study further examined the effectiveness of counseling services in helping adolescents overcome substance dependence through therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, group counseling, motivational interviewing, and awareness programs. The study also identified major challenges affecting effective counseling services in Nigerian tertiary institutions, including inadequate funding, shortage of trained counselors, poor counseling facilities, stigma and discrimination, peer pressure, lack of awareness, weak institutional policies, and insufficient parental involvement. These challenges reduce students’ willingness to seek help and weaken rehabilitation efforts. In addressing these problems, the study proposed several strengthening mechanisms such as increased funding, recruitment and training of qualified counselors, awareness and sensitization programs, peer support groups, stronger institutional policies, parental collaboration, and technology-based counseling platforms. The study concluded that effective counseling services are essential for reducing drug addiction among adolescents and promoting healthier academic and social environments in Nigerian tertiary institutions. One of the recommendations made was that government and school authorities should provide adequate funding for counseling centers, rehabilitation facilities, and drug abuse prevention programs in tertiary institutions.