United Against Drug Abuse: Promoting Positive Mental Health
Executive Summary
The ‘’United Against Drug Abuse: Promoting Mental health’’ campaign is a collaborative initiative that seeks to address the growing concern of drug abuse and its impact on mental health and socio-economic development of the country. Leveraging partnerships with the University of Zimbabwe’s Social work and Applied Psychology department, VARSITY MENTAL HEALTH CHAMPIONS, Pamvuri PVO and other requisite organizations. This initiative aims to bring and raise awareness, reduce drug abuse and promote healthy copying mechanisms among students, youth and vulnerable populations.
Through a series of key activities on the day, there will be conveying of key messages about the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of mental well-being. The approach will be multifaceted, ensuring that our message reaches a wider audience and has a lasting impact. We believe that drug abuse is a serious issue that affects not only individuals but also families and communities. By mobilizing resources and support we can create a collective response to this critical issue promoting a drug free lifestyle and supporting those affected by drug abuse. The campaign is designed to inspire hope and encourage positive change and foster a culture of mental health and well-being.
Through working together, we can make a meaningful contribution and difference in the lives of individuals and communities affected by drugs. Our campaign is a call to action, urgingeveryone to join us in this important effort. This will enable us to create a brighter future, free from the grip of drug abuse and rich in mental health and well-being.
BACKGROUND
Drug abuse is a pervasive issue that affects individuals, families and communities worldwide. According to WHO (2019), approximately 31 million people suffer from drug use disorders, resulting in significant social, economic and health consequences Zimbabwe, drug abuse has become a growing concern, with a recent study indicating a significant increase in drug use by the youth. (Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency ,2020)
Research has consistently shown that drug abuse is linked to various mental health problems including depression, anxiety and psychosis(National Institute on Drug Abuse,2020).Furthermore ,drug abuse can exacerbate existing mental health conditionsleading to a downward spiral of worsening mental health and increased drug use(Kessler et al.,2005).In addition ,drug abuse can have devastating consequences on individuals social and economic lives including unemployment ,poverty and social isolation.(UNODC,2019).
The impact of drug abuse is not only limited to individuals; it also affects families and communities. Family members of individuals struggling with drug abuse often experience emotional distress, financial burden and social stigma (Orfod et al.,2019). Moreover, drug abuse can contribute to community level problems, such as increased crime rates, violenceand healthcare costs (CDC,2020).
Despite severity of the issue, many individuals struggling with drug abuse do not seek help due to various barriers, including stigma, lack of access to treatment and financial constraints (SAMHSA,2020). Therefore, it is essential to address drug abuse and its impact on mental health through comprehensive and multifaceted approaches that involve awareness raising, education and community support.
Concluding, drug abuse is a complex issue that requires immediate attention and action. Byunderstanding the background and consequences of drug abuse, we can develop effective strategies to address this issue and promote mental health and well-being. Through the‘’United Against Drug Abuse: Promoting Mental Health and Wellbeing’’ campaign, weaim to contribute to the global efforts to address drug abuse and promote a healthier and more supportive society.
OBJECTIVES
➢ To raise awareness about drug abuse and its effect on individuals and communities.➢ To promote a comprehensive and coordinated approach to addressing drug abuse➢ To foster collaboration and partnership among stakeholders in addressing drug abuse➢ To identify gaps in services and support for individuals and communities affected by drug abuse➢ To develop strategies and interventions to drug abuse➢ To increase commitment and action among stakeholders to address drug abuse➢ To provide a platform for stakeholders to share knowledge, expertise and resources in addressing drug abuse➢ To promote a united front against drug abuse and its effect on individuals and communities
EXPECTED OUTCOMES
➢ Increased awareness about drug abuse and its effect on individuals and communities➢ Improved understanding of the importance of addressing drug abuse ➢ Enhanced collaboration and coordination amongst stakeholders in addressing drug abuse ➢ Identification of gaps in services and support for individuals and communities affected by drug abuse➢ Development of strategies and interventions to address drug abuse➢ Increased commitment and action among stakeholders to address drug abuse
TARGET AUDIENCE
➢ Tertiary students➢ Youth➢ University staff➢ Women ➢ Children➢ Marginalized groups
Drug abuse is very rampant to the above-mentioned demography. In Zimbabwe a study found that 30% of the university students had used drugs in the past year, while 15% of universitystaff reported using drugs during the same period. (Zimbabwe National StatisticsAgency,2020).
Research has shown that drug abuse among vulnerable populations can have devastating consequences on their mental health and wellbeing. Studies have linked drug use to increased symptoms of depression of anxiety and stress on the target audience. (National Institute on Drug Abuse,2020). Furthermore, drug abuse can exacerbate existing health conditions such as HIV/AIDS, and increase the risk of sexual violence and exploitation among women and children. (UNODC,2019).
Tertiary institutions in particular, face unique challenges in addressing drug abuse among students and staff. The academic environment can foster a culture of competitions, stress, andburnout, which can contribute to drug use (Kumar et,.2018). Moreover, tertiary students and staff have limited access to health care services, mental health support and substance abuse treatment, exacerbating the issue (SAMHSA.2020).
Other vulnerable populations, such as women, children and marginalized groups, faceadditional barriers in accessing support and services for drug abuse. Women may experience gender-based violence, stigma and discrimination when seeking help for drug abuse (UN WOMEN,2020). Children and adolescents may be more susceptible to drug abuse due to peer pressure, lack of parental supervision, and limited access to education and recreational activities (WHO,2019).
Addressing drug abuse among vulnerable populations requires a comprehensive and inclusive approach that considers the unique needs and challenges of each group. Tertiary institutions, healthcare providers healthcare providers and community organization and requisite authorities must work together to provide accessible and culturally sensitive support services, education and resources to promote healthy behaviors and prevent drug abuse (CDC,2020). The prioritization of the needs of vulnerable populations, we can create a more equitable and supportive environment for all individuals.
ACTIVITY FOR THE DAY
The ‘’United Against Drug Abuse’’ march and main event will take place on -SEPTEMBER 2024 from 0820am to 1330pm.The march will start at ANNEXE PARIRENYATWA and proceed to Diamond Lecture Theater, where the main event will be held. The police and Prisons and Correctional services band will provide support for the march.
The main event will commence with a welcome and introduction by the master of ceremonies. The event will have a key note speaker, stories from survivors who will share their personal experiences and challenges they faced. There will be a presentation on government policy on drug abuse and the role of various stakeholders. The University of Zimbabwe will present its policy on drug abuse, outlining the measures put in place to prevent and address drug abuse among students and staff.
The main event will also feature participation other agencies working on drug abuse prevention and treatment, including the ZRP, ZPCS and other organizations. These agencies will share their experience and expertise in addressing drug abuse.
The event aims to promote collaboration and co-ordination among agencies working on drug abuse prevention and treatment. By bring together various stakeholders, the event seeks to strengthen the response to drug abuse and promote a comprehensive approach to addressing this issue.
PARTNERSHIPS
The ‘’United Against Drug Abuse’’ event aims to foster partnerships among various stakeholders to address drug abuse. Through collaboration with different entities, the event seeks to leverage resources, expertise, and networks to promote a comprehensive approach to address drug and substance abuse. This partnership will enable the event to reach a wider audience, increase its impact, and ensure a coordinated approach
Through partnerships, the event can benefit from shared knowledge, expertise and resources. Partners can provide valuable insights, data and research findings to inform the event strategies. Additionally, partners can offer technical assistance and capacity building programs to support event objectives. By working together, partners can also identify and address gaps in services and support individuals affected by drug abuse.
The event ought to benefit from partnerships in several ways. This includes enhancing event credibility and legitimacy, demonstrating a collective commitment to addressing a collectivecommitment to addressing drug abuse. Secondly, partnerships can facilitate access to resources, expertise and networks increasing the event’s impact the reach. Thirdly,partnerships can promote a coordinated response to drug abuse, ensuring that efforts are aligned and effective.
Through credible partnerships, the event will create a united front against drug abuse, ensuring and promoting a comprehensive and holistic approach to address this critical issue ultimately making a meaningful contribution to the lives of the individuals and communities and families affected by drug abuse hence a healthier and safer society.
CONCLUSION
Concluding, this event is a crucial step towards addressing the growing concern of drug abuse in our society. Through this event, we aim to raise awareness, promote a comprehensive approach, foster collaboration, identify gaps, develop strategies, and increase commitment to address drug abuse. We believe that by working together, we will make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities affected by drug abuse.
The event success is crucial in promoting a healthier, safer and more supportive society for all thus having ripple effect that inspires positive change and saves lives.