Kids Turning to Drugs: A Hidden Crisis Unveiled

During a recent congress organized by the Fiji Teachers Registration Authority and the Ministry of Education, Josua Naisele, a representative from the Substance Abuse Advisory Council (SAAC), highlighted a troubling trend among children who resort to drug use as a means of coping with anxiety. Naisele emphasized that many parents lack the knowledge and skills to effectively address their children’s drug abuse, often stemming from underlying issues of abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

In his presentation at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Nadi, Naisele pointed out that a child’s emotional well-being is crucial for their development. He urged educators to ensure that students are emotionally stable before starting their lessons, recognizing this as a significant challenge faced by teachers. The impact of domestic abuse, he noted, often drives children to seek refuge in drugs, which can create a cycle of addiction and perpetuate the cycle of abuse.

Moreover, Naisele mentioned that severe corporal punishment and poor parenting techniques could further exacerbate the problem, leading to families pushing children away. He stressed the importance of providing parents with effective parenting skills to guide their children positively. By addressing family dynamics and normalizing healthy behaviors, it is possible to reshape perceptions surrounding drug use in homes.

Naisele’s remarks serve as a call to action for both parents and educators to create healthier environments for children. By ensuring emotional stability and fostering supportive relationships, communities can work together to reduce the prevalence of drug use as a coping mechanism among youth.

In summary, Naisele’s insights shed light on the critical need for awareness and action regarding children’s mental health and substance use, urging families and educators to work collaboratively for the well-being of future generations. This highlights a hopeful perspective that through education and support, communities can combat the challenges of drug use among children effectively.