Steer clear of vapes
IT is now common knowledge that drug abuse, particularly by teenagers, is on the rise in Zimbabwe.
Resultantly, Government, working with schools and other organisations, has embarked on awareness campaigns highlighting the dangers of drug and substance abuse.
It is also putting in place a number of measures to curb this menace.
Sophisticated and dangerous smoking devices like the vape (electronic cigarette) are increasingly being used by young people.
School authorities and parents must be on the lookout for such devices.
Reasons for getting involved in drug and substance abuse are many and varied.
For instance, some teenagers take drugs because they believe they will cure their emotional turmoil.
Others do so because of low self-esteem, boredom, peer pressure, curiosity and not knowing how to handle failure.
However, I want to offer some advice to teenagers who might be in this predicament or are being tempted to indulge.
In most instances, what we wear, the games we play, our attitude to schooling and indulgence in certain behaviours can be influenced by our peers.
Most teenagers who are shy and have trouble making friends may end up abusing drugs in search of a bonding experience with their peers.
Some engage in morally reprehensive behaviour in a bid to be considered “cool” by their colleagues.
To overcome this challenge, they should join clubs or sports that can help them make friends in a healthy way.
Teenagers can find themselves in depressing situations.
When they are sad, some of them may see intoxicating substances as providing a way out of their situations.
Instead of destroying themselves in such ways, they should talk to someone they trust at school or at home.
Talking about their problems with a responsible adult they trust can help them get counselling and proper guidance.
They should speak up whenever they face problems.
They must not suffer in silence and resort to drugs.
Some teenagers take illicit substances due to curiosity.
Most of them know that drugs are not good but they are still eager to experiment.
The sad part, however, is that once one is hooked, it is difficult to stop. Addiction is real and difficult to overcome. Proper education on the repercussions of taking illicit substances can extinguish this curiosity.
Challenges associated with drug and substance abuse include memory loss, impaired vision, poor judgement (reasoning), loss of interest in school activities, accidents, lack of self-respect, suicidal thoughts and engagement in delinquent behaviour such as stealing and violence.
Some of these challenges may lead to imprisonment and regret.
Drug and substance abuse also leads to poor health. You need to keep off drugs if you care for your future.
Remain focused and resist negative peer influences.
Find a hobby in which you can invest your spare time. You have a choice between being sober or being a drug addict. It is advisable to choose sobriety and make steps towards recovery if one is already involved.
Remember, a stitch in time saves nine!