Childhood Coping Crisis: Are Kids Turning to Drugs for Relief?

Children are increasingly turning to drugs as a method to cope with anxiety, according to Josua Naisele, a representative from the Substance Abuse Advisory Council (SAAC). During a recent presentation at the Fiji Teachers Registration Authority and Ministry of Education congress held at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Nadi, Naisele highlighted the concerning trend and noted that many parents are unaware of effective ways to address their children’s drug use.

Naisele emphasized that a significant number of students resort to drugs due to experiences of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. He stressed the need for a supportive environment where children can feel calm, stable, and happy. The emotional stability of students is a challenge for teachers, who often face difficulties in creating a conducive learning atmosphere when students are struggling with emotional issues.

He identified domestic abuse as a major factor that contributes to children’s drug addiction, as it can serve as an escape from difficult home situations. Moreover, the cycle of abuse can perpetuate itself, with children who experience violence in their families potentially becoming perpetrators in the future.

Naisele also pointed out that severe corporal punishment can further exacerbate the issue. Many parents express confusion and helplessness regarding how to manage their children, which reveals a need for better parenting skills and support systems. He indicated that drug use can become normalized within families, with children learning to view substance use as an acceptable behavior, leading to patterns of poly-drug use—where they mix multiple substances like alcohol and drugs.

The insights shared by Naisele highlight the urgent need for community support, better parenting strategies, and educational programs to address the root causes of substance abuse among children. It is hopeful that by raising awareness and providing suitable resources, communities can work together to create healthier environments for children and reduce the rates of drug use as a coping mechanism.

In summary, the conversation initiated by SAAC underscores the complexities surrounding drug use among children, emphasizing the importance of emotional support and parental guidance in preventing substance abuse.