Overcoming Addiction through Buddhist practices: a Mind Lab event

Presenter: Ven. Dharana Dassa Thero (in person)

Wed 21 June | 7pm – 8.30pm

Location: In person at Metta Centre (Bankstown) or online (zoom link below)

Cost: by donation

Substance use disorders are a prevalent mental health issue in Australia, affecting one in every 20 Australians. Illicit drug use has been reported by 43% of individuals aged 14 and over, according to the 2019 National Drug Strategy Household Survey (NDSHS). Unfortunately, substance abuse often leads to severe health problems or long-term damage to vital organs and is a significant cause of mental illness in the country. While the government and other organizations are implementing better rehabilitation programs, between 40-60% of individuals who undergo rehabilitation end up relapsing. Many of these individuals initially developed their addiction due to voluntary personal choices. However, we believe that the Dhamma has the potential to provide answers to undo such addictions.

Addiction is a cyclic process, especially when it is triggered by personal choices. The mind becomes increasingly addicted in this vicious circle. According to Buddhist philosophy, this cycle perpetuates due to ignorance of the fundamental mechanism of psycho-physical pain and pleasure, which leads to craving external substances or experiences. By educating the mind about itself, the addiction cycle can be permanently inhibited. This method has been successfully tested and proven at the Jethavanarama Buddhist monastery in Sri Lanka, where more than 300 male and female individuals have benefited.

This talk will provide valuable insights into the mental processes and Buddhist philosophical principles behind drug addiction and related issues. It will also give a glimpse into the revolutionary rehabilitation program at the Jethavanarama Buddhist Monastery. Anyone interested in addiction psychology or affected by addiction can benefit from this talk.

About the speaker: Ven. Dharana Dassa Thero, aka Dassa Thero, is a young and charismatic Buddhist monk. Having grown up in a loving family of two sisters, from a very young age Dassa thero demonstrated an endearing sense of compassion and loving kindness towards all who crossed his path. Educated in a prestigious British Grammar School, very soon he developed a keen acumen for examining virtually every aspect of life, both physical and spiritual. His curiosity and unquenchable thirst to understand the “truths” about life and its purpose were fore signs of a future not even he could imagine. His life took a turn off the beaten path when he met a teacher who was prepared to show him the absolute Truths, and under his guidance Dassa Thero ventured into the depths of the Buddha’s Philosophy.

Five years on, he celebrates his journey as a higher-ordained Buddhist monk, by sharing his discoveries with a growing audience of avid listeners who tune in to his talks regularly from across the globe. Today, Dassa Thero is a sought-after speaker among teenagers from countries including Canada, Australia, UK and USA who seek his guidance to tackle issues affecting them. He has helped children of all ages and young adults overcome challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, addictions and more. His innate ability to deliver life-changing talks by intertwining the timeless truths of Dharma with inspirational stories and modern-day examples – all based in the foundations of science, helps apply the Buddhist teachings into our lives effortlessly. Dassa Thero’s unwavering goal is to realise the Ultimate Truth of Unconditional Happiness. Enroute to achieving that goal he wishes to spread the seeds of happiness and peace to all mankind.

Hybrid event: Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in an interactive session with the speaker in person at the Metta Centre (Bankstown). You are welcome to join the session in person at the Metta Centre or online by clicking on this link to access the session: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83506489824?pwd=cmpNQ1ljSmFVYURLWVN1dWllYUN1dz09 Alternatively, you can dial in from your telephone (call charges apply): +61 2 8015 6011 | Meeting ID: 835 0648 9824| Passcode: 718905