By Bongiwe Dube
At a time when youth participation is of great significance considering the looming 2023 harmonised elections, the growing drugs abuse pandemic threatens to limit the number of young people that will vote on election day.
Since 2022, hundreds of youths have been busted doing drugs that are illegally transported into the country due to the porous state of our borders.
While a crackdown on those selling drugs in the streets by authorities has seen hundreds being arrested, questions remain on the real drug lords who are the ones who supply drugs to be sold. As the police continue to conduct their investigations, it is imperative to also teach and warn young people about the consequences of drug abuse. In this article, CYDT highlights some key effects of drugs abuse that could serve as a warning for young people to stop abusing drugs.
There are many risks that are linked to drugs abuse such as mental health risks (depression, having suicidal thoughts, attempted suicide), physical health risks and personality disorders.
In a research conducted by The Drug Abuse Warning Network (DAWN), drugs abuse have a direct negative impact on the performance and participation of youths in learning institutions and civic spaces. The DAWN states that young people who abuse drugs end up having health-related problems that includes mental health leaving them in a difficult position to participate and perform better.
For those who are still learning, Miller (1992) notes that drugs abuse affects the level of commitment. In other words, due to the influence of drugs, a young person may start by not attending lectures and other crucial activities which often results in the young person having low grades.
Drugs abuse affects the ability to effectively participate for those who want to be actively involved in decision making spaces. The DAWN postulates that substance abuse could affects the physical health of youths; they may suffer extensive injuries due to accidents such as car accidents while under the influence and end up with life threatening health conditions and diseases. Such consequences have a direct effect on the individual’s participation in civic spaces as the person may suffer physical health problems that could make him or her stay at home for the rest of his or her life.
When an individual is under the influence of drugs, they are likely to make uninformed decisions such as choosing not to take part in the electoral process. With the 2023 elections fast approaching, the increased rate of drug abuse among youth is concerning as they could miss their chance to make their voices heard by not registering to vote.
●As a young person, say NO drugs abuse!
●Avoiding drugs means you are protecting your health, life, career and future
●Stay informed and focused because the future is in your hands
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