Four Contributing Factors to Substance Abuse Among Learners in South African Schools

On this page, we discuss the main four contributing factors that may lead to an increase of learners abusing substances in schools:

Substance abuse among students in South African schools is a growing concern, impacting not only the individuals involved but also their families and communities.

In this context, several factors contribute to this alarming trend, including peer pressure, stress and mental health issues, accessibility of substances, and family influence. These factors are deeply intertwined and create a challenging environment for young learners. It’s crucial to understand each aspect to address the problem effectively.

List of Four Contributing Factors to Substance Abuse Among Learners in South African Schools

1. Peer Pressure

Peer pressure is a significant driver of substance abuse among South African students. The desire to fit in with peers can lead learners to experiment with substances like alcohol, cigarettes, and even drugs. For instance, in many township schools, the prevalence of substance use among peers can create an environment where abstaining is seen as unusual or socially unacceptable. A study by the South African Medical Research Council in 2017 found that more than 25% of high school students had consumed alcohol, often due to peer influence. The normalization of these behaviors within certain groups can make it difficult for students to resist trying substances.

Moving from peer pressure, we must consider the impact of stress and mental health issues on substance abuse, particularly given the unique challenges faced by South African learners.

2. Stress and Mental Health Issues

South African students often face considerable stress from various sources, including academic pressures, socio-economic challenges, and family problems. These stressors can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, which some learners may attempt to manage through substance use. For instance, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) reports that teenagers facing family instability or academic failure are at higher risk of turning to substances. The National Youth Risk Behaviour Survey highlighted that 13% of high school students reported feelings of depression, and 8% had attempted suicide, indicating a significant need for mental health support.

Unfortunately, mental health services are often inadequate, especially in under-resourced areas, leaving students without the necessary support. This lack of access can push them towards substances as a coping mechanism. As we discuss these mental health challenges, it is also essential to address the accessibility of substances in South Africa.

3. Accessibility of Substances

Accessibility is a critical factor in substance abuse among South African learners. Alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs are relatively easy to obtain, even for underage students. In urban areas, taverns and shebeens often operate near schools, providing easy access to alcohol. According to a report by the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA), 47% of learners had easy access to alcohol and 22% to cannabis. This ease of access is compounded by the fact that law enforcement and regulatory bodies often struggle to control illegal substance distribution effectively.

Moreover, the rising issue of nyaope (a street drug combining heroin and other substances) in Gauteng and other provinces has become a significant concern. Its cheap cost and high availability make it accessible to students, further exacerbating the problem. As we explore this issue of accessibility, the family environment also plays a crucial role in shaping students’ attitudes towards substance use.

4. Family Influence

The influence of the family environment on substance abuse among South African students cannot be overstated. In many cases, learners grow up in households where substance use is normalized, either through direct exposure or due to parental neglect. A study conducted by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) indicated that children from homes where alcohol or drugs are abused are more likely to engage in similar behaviors. This situation is often worse in communities affected by poverty, where unemployment and lack of recreational activities leave young people vulnerable to substance use.

In addition, cultural factors can play a role. In some communities, traditional ceremonies and celebrations involve alcohol, subtly reinforcing its use among young people. The lack of positive role models and supportive family structures can leave students feeling isolated and more susceptible to seeking comfort in substances.

Government Actions on Substance Abuse Among Learners in South Africa

The South African government has recognized the growing issue of substance abuse among learners and has implemented several measures to address it. However, the effectiveness and sufficiency of these measures are subject to debate. Here, we’ll discuss the government’s efforts and evaluate whether they are adequate, while also suggesting better alternatives.

Current Government Efforts

1. National Drug Master Plan (NDMP): The NDMP is a strategic framework aimed at combating substance abuse across the country. The latest iteration, covering 2019-2024, outlines comprehensive strategies involving prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. The plan emphasizes community-based approaches, awareness campaigns, and coordination between various government departments.
2. Integrated School Health Programme (ISHP): This initiative, a collaboration between the Departments of Health, Basic Education, and Social Development, provides health services to learners. It includes substance abuse prevention education as part of its curriculum, aiming to inform students about the risks and consequences of substance use.
3. Legislation and Law Enforcement: South Africa has laws in place to regulate the sale and consumption of alcohol and drugs. The Liquor Act regulates the sale of alcohol, while the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act criminalizes the possession and distribution of illegal substances. Additionally, the South African Police Service (SAPS) conducts regular operations to crack down on illegal substance distribution, especially near schools.
4. Support Services: The government funds various support services, such as the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA) and the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG). These organizations provide counseling, rehabilitation, and support to individuals struggling with substance abuse.

Evaluation of Current Efforts

While these efforts are significant, they face several challenges that limit their effectiveness:

• Insufficient Resources: The implementation of the NDMP and other programs often suffers from limited funding and resources, particularly in rural and underprivileged areas. This limitation affects the reach and impact of prevention and treatment initiatives.
• Coordination Issues: There is sometimes a lack of effective coordination between various government departments and stakeholders. This can lead to fragmented efforts and reduced overall effectiveness.
• Enforcement Gaps: Despite strict laws, enforcement remains inconsistent. In many communities, especially townships and rural areas, illegal alcohol and drug trade continue unabated, partly due to corruption and inadequate law enforcement resources.

Better Alternatives and Recommendations

To more effectively address substance abuse among learners, the following alternatives and enhancements are recommended:

1. Enhanced Community-Based Programs: Strengthening community-based initiatives can be more effective than top-down approaches. Involving local leaders, educators, and healthcare providers in creating tailored programs can better address the unique challenges of each community.
2. Increased Funding for Mental Health Services: Expanding access to mental health services, particularly in schools, can help address one of the root causes of substance abuse. This includes hiring more counselors, providing training for teachers, and ensuring that mental health education is a core part of the curriculum.
3. Stricter Law Enforcement and Anti-Corruption Measures: Improving the enforcement of existing laws, coupled with anti-corruption measures within law enforcement agencies, can help curb the availability of illegal substances. Regular audits and community policing initiatives can enhance accountability.
4. Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborating with private sector entities can provide additional resources and innovative solutions. For instance, tech companies can assist in creating educational apps or platforms that engage young people in learning about the dangers of substance abuse.
5. Parental and Family Support Programs: Developing programs that educate parents about substance abuse and its signs can empower families to support their children effectively. Workshops and community meetings can facilitate open communication and create a support network for families.

Conclusion

The South African government has made significant strides in addressing substance abuse among learners through various programs and laws. However, challenges such as inadequate resources, enforcement issues, and coordination gaps limit the effectiveness of these measures. By enhancing community involvement, increasing mental health support, strengthening law enforcement, leveraging public-private partnerships, and supporting families, the government can create a more robust and effective approach to combating substance abuse among learners.