International Journal of Applied Guidance and Counseling
Vol. 7 No. 2 (2026)

Exploring Community Experiences Related of Drug Counseling Programs

Aulia Utari (Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara)
Mutiawati (Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara)



Article Info

Publish Date
07 Sep 2026

Abstract

This study aims to analyze community experiences in participating in drug prevention education programs, their effectiveness in improving public knowledge and awareness of drug abuse, as well as the challenges and solutions for enhancing program effectiveness. This study employed a qualitative case study design. Data were collected through observations and interviews with community members and supporting informants and analyzed descriptively. The findings indicate that the program provided positive experiences by improving participants’ understanding of the types, impacts, and prevention of drug abuse. The program was considered reasonably effective in increasing knowledge and awareness, particularly regarding the role of families and communities in prevention. Its effectiveness was supported by accessible language, relevant materials, and interactive communication. However, uneven participation, time constraints, and differences in participants’ levels of understanding remained challenges. Therefore, improving program effectiveness requires continuous implementation, flexible scheduling, interactive methods and media, and stronger collaboration among village governments, counselors, families, community leaders, and residents. Drug education thus serves not only as information dissemination but also as a process of community empowerment and collective responsibility in preventing drug abuse.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

IJAGC

Publisher

Subject

Education Social Sciences

Description

IJAGC is a high-quality open access peer-reviewed research journal that is published by the Department of Guidance and Counseling, Mercu Buana University of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. IJAGC provides a platform that welcomes and acknowledges high quality empirical original research papers and literature ...