South African Correspondent
South Africa is facing a devastating crisis: children as young as four are abusing drugs.
The South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (Sanca) recently revealed this alarming trend, prompting them to adapt their programs to support younger children.
Sanca’s national director, Adri Vermeulen, sounded the alarm, stating that children between four and ten years old are seeking treatment, indicating deep-seated issues within families and communities.
The most commonly abused substances among these children include alcohol, cannabis, methamphetamine, and heroin.
Key Factors Contributing to Substance Abuse:
- Unemployment: Many young drug users lack employment opportunities, making them vulnerable to substance abuse.
- Easy Access: The widespread availability and low cost of drugs exacerbate the problem.
- Historical Roots: South Africa’s colonial and apartheid past has contributed to the current substance abuse crisis, with alcohol having been used as a tool of oppression.
- Global Drug Trafficking: South Africa’s position as a transit hub for international drug traffickers further complicates the issue.
Vermeulen emphasized the need for a shift in societal attitudes, recognizing addiction as a disease and prioritizing youth protection. She urged communities to come together to address this crisis effectively.
In another study focusing on fathers’ experiences with children struggling with substance abuse, researchers found that fathers play a crucial role in supporting their children. The study highlighted the importance of understanding the challenges fathers face and the need for community support to combat substance abuse.
This issue requires immediate attention and collective action to protect South Africa’s youth.
Zim GBC News©2024