Student fights against drug, substance abuse
THERE are alarming reports indicating a marked increase in drug and substance abuse among Zimbabwe’s younger generation. As a result, some university students are facing significant mental health challenges.
However, amid the gloom, a fourth-year psychology student at the University of Zimbabwe has chosen a different path.
Tariro Mandaza has witnessed first-hand the devastating impact of substance abuse on her peers. She has become a champion of mental health awareness and support.
At only 23, she has embarked on a global journey, travelling to the United States, Argentina and other countries to learn from leading mental health organisations.
Her goal?
To gather knowledge and resources to empower youth in their fight against addiction and its associated mental health struggles.
She has also founded a mental health support organisation called Adventure Self-Discovery Foundation.
“Although I wanted to be a lawyer, fate has led me to discover my actual calling in life,” she told The Sunday Mail.
“Enrolling in psychology and working with psychiatric institutions has opened my mind and made me realise that there is a gap that needs to be filled: one to do with mental health among youths.”
While an increasing number of youths were suffering from mental health disorders, she said, there were few avenues for them to receive assistance and support.
“The experience has enlightened me on the causes of drug abuse and the best approaches to providing support to victims. I believe young leaders like me have a crucial role to play in taking action and helping those in need,” she said.
Having been a victim of bullying in high school, Mandaza realised the importance of counselling and mental health.
“My experiences at Cherutombo High School shaped me,” she continued.
“Some learners used to bully me, but my teachers made me find myself and my value.
“From a shy, quiet girl, I became vocal and later became the school’s head girl.”
She added that many youths who are subjected to bullying in school end up finding solace in drugs and other immoral activities due to lack of guidance.
“With the right support, you can be someone you never thought you could be. Sometimes I feel like I am dreaming, considering the heights I have reached, and this is why I try to repay God’s favour by assisting others.”
Through her organisation, Mandaza, who is a devoted Apostolic sect member, plans to assist youths suffering from mental illness.
“We will offer tests and assessments to diagnose different conditions and understand how an affected person thinks, feels and behaves.
“I will also help people learn to cope with stressful situations, overcome addictions and manage their chronic illnesses,” she added.
She plans to partner with the private sector to help youths escape the clutches of drug abuse and become agents of Zimbabwe’s economic revival.
“The long-term plan is to establish a fully fledged drug rehabilitation centre that will offer services at a minimal cost. Rehabilitation is expensive, but my dream is to ensure youths get assistance, including psychosocial support and community reintegration for free,” Mandaza said.
Presently, she is working with schools where she gives presentations on mental illness.
Addressing the Robert Gabriel Mugabe National Youth Day last week, President Mnangagwa urged youths to take the lead in the fight against drug and substance abuse.