Drug culture
Deemed cool online
IT is no secret that social media platforms have made drugs look cool.
With celebrities and influencers sharing content depicting a glitzy lifestyle that encompasses drugs and alcohol, youngsters seem drawn to it.
Warning Empangeni teenagers, Siyethemba Vilane from Sanca Zulualnd visited the Crossroads Centre to talk to them and raise awareness around drug abuse.
“It is a constantly growing phenomenon, however, after the Covid-19 lockdown, we saw a spike in underage drinking and alcohol abuse our youngest client needing rehabilitation was 11 years old,’’ said Vilane.
“Alcohol consumption has become the norm and a way of celebration in our communities. This is how teens are easily influenced.”
Hope Mtshali from Crossroads said she felt a need to host this talk as alcohol and drugs have become a trend on social media.
“Most teenagers do not even know what a drug is, they do not consider weed or vaping as a form of drugs,’’ she said.
“I wanted to ensure teenagers understand how easy it is to fall into the pitfalls of consuming drugs and becoming addicted.”
Crossroads members Senamile Sikhosana (Grade 11) and Zinqoba Ngwenya (Grade 12) both believe social media has played a huge role in influencing youngsters to take drugs and consume alcohol.
“Alcohol has become a trend and is a marketing strategy to attract the youth as they are easily influenced; from the music we listen to, to the videos we watch," said Senamile.
“Alcohol disrupts and distracts us from goals we set for ourselves."
"It’s a harmful marketing strategy that is set to target us teens,” agreed Zinqoba. Parents and community members who wish to assist a loved one struggling with alcohol or drug addiction can contact Sanca Zululand on 035 7723290 for
assistance.