IN recent years, Zimbabwe has faced a growing public health concern amid an increase in underage drinking among the youth.
Research indicates a strong correlation between this issue and rising rates of anxiety and depression among young people in the country.
According to a 2022 study conducted by the Health and Child Care ministry, nearly one in four teenagers aged 15 to 19 reported engaging in binge drinking within the past month.
This represented a significant increase from the 2019 figures, which showed a 19% rate of underage alcohol consumption.
Further analysis revealed that youths who partake in underage drinking are up to 50% more likely to also struggle with mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression.
Experts believe this connection is multifaceted - the neurotoxic effects of alcohol on the developing brain can alter mood and cognitive function, while the social isolation and peer pressure associated with underage drinking also contribute to poor mental wellbeing.
“The rise in underage drinking that we’re seeing across Zimbabwe is a cause for concern,” said Tendai Maphosa, a child and adolescent psychiatrist based in Harare.
“Not only does it put young people at risk of addiction and physical health issues, it is also deeply connected to the growing mental health crisis we’re witnessing in this demographic.”
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Recent data from the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency showed that rates of anxiety and depression among 15 to 24-year-olds have increased by 35% over the past three years.
Tragically, suicide has also become the second leading cause of death in this age group.
In response to these alarming trends, the government and various non-governmental organisations have implemented a range of initiatives aimed at curbing underage drinking and improving access to mental health support services for young people.
These include:
- Strengthening enforcement of legal drinking age limits and alcohol sales restrictions
- Launching nationwide public awareness campaigns to educate the youth on the dangers of alcohol abuse
- Expanding school-based counselling programmes and mental health screening, and
- Increasing funding and resources for community-based mental health clinics.
While progress has been made, experts agree that more comprehensive and sustained efforts are needed to address the interconnected crises of underage drinking and youth mental health in Zimbabwe.
Policymakers, educators, healthcare providers and community leaders must come together to implement holistic, evidence-based solutions.
By tackling these challenges head-on can Zimbabwe ensure a brighter and healthier future for its young people.
With concerted action and a steadfast commitment to supporting youth well-being, the country can overcome this troubling trend and empower the next generation to reach its full potential.
- Raymond Rusinga is a mental health advocate, a writer and/or researcher based in Harare, Zimbabwe. He is dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and improving access to quality mental health care for all.writes here in his personal capacity and can be contacted on +263 776 206 227 or email: rayrusinga02@gmail.com.
