Creating safer environments for the youth

THE current generation of young people finds themselves entangled in a reflection of societal shortcomings with the impact of substance abuse affecting them extensively. A new cultural phenomenon has emerged, one in which society has inadvertently facilitated a potentially destructive lifestyle for the youth.

In recent years, there has been a surge in cases of substance abuse across the country. According to the latest statistics from the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA), for the period spanning April 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022, a total of 13 925 patients were treated. This marks a significant 30% increase compared to the preceding year.

Also read: Police host drugs awareness initiative

Nazar Loonat, the outreach coordinator at SANCA, revealed the reasoning behind the increase.

“The impact of Covid-19 – with the hard lockdown – on addiction I think is what awakened us and made us concentrate on the extent of addiction, particularly with regards to alcohol and tobacco-related products within our country.

“We can see this from the desperation in the consumption of alcohol, and we saw home concoctions that were replacing your retail outlet. The consumption of the zombie concoction obviously registered a high number of deaths.

“We saw the black-market trading of alcohol and tobacco products increase, and we saw something rather new – liquor outlets were getting robbed, not for money but for alcohol – as a result of the lockdown.”

According to the most recent data from the United Nations report, it has been disclosed that ‘South African youth are particularly susceptible to experimenting with and engaging in long-term use of various substances, including alcohol, illicit drugs, over-the-counter medications and prescription drugs’.

“This trend is significantly influenced by societal factors that enable such behaviours,” said Nazia Saloojie, a life coach at SANCA. She attributed the contributing factors that lead to substance abuse within this generation.

Also read: Weapons and drugs found during school search

“There are various contributing factors at play. Mental health issues, such as depression, fetal alcohol syndrome and teenage pregnancy have become prevalent among young people. These issues contribute to suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts and self-mutilation.

“Additionally, there is a notable absence of recreational institutions and facilities in our communities. As a result, young people often turn to drinking and smoking as their chosen recreational activities. This points to the models and value systems we uphold as a society,” said Saloojie.

While there isn’t a detailed blueprint to address this issue, there are tips and guidelines that can be followed to provide assistance. As a society, we must cultivate a culture that promotes the well-being of the youth.

“Fostering openness in discussions about mental illnesses is essential as it stands as one of the primary factors contributing to substance abuse. Creating a sense of unity among individuals is equally important, ensuring that no one ever feels isolated or alone, regardless of their circumstances,” said Saloojie.

For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook or Twitter. You can also follow us on Instagram.