The Ministry of Health and Mass Media has launched a series of training programmes aimed at equipping healthcare workers with psychological intervention techniques to prevent tobacco use and support smoking cessation efforts.
Director of the Non-Communicable Diseases Unit, Dr. Sreeni Alahapperuma, said the initiative is centred on the “Brief Intervention” approach, a counselling method that enables health professionals to encourage positive behavioural change among tobacco users through short, targeted conversations.
She explained that the technique is designed to quickly raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use and motivate individuals to reduce or completely quit smoking.
The first workshop under the programme will be held on June 15 at the auditorium of the Colombo District Director of Health Services Office.
Consultant Psychiatrist Dr. Prabath Wickrama will serve as the main resource person, providing guidance on effective counselling strategies and behavioural intervention methods.
The training programme will be attended by Medical Officers of Health, Health Education Officers, Public Health Inspectors, Public Health Midwives, and other field health personnel involved in community healthcare services.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts by the Ministry to strengthen tobacco control measures and promote healthier lifestyles across the country.
