Online Reporter
Dr Tendai Zuze
Health Matters
DRUG abuse is becoming a serious problem in Zimbabwe and it is affecting people of all ages and all social classes.
Many people, especially young ones, believe that trying a drug once cannot cause harm. This belief is dangerous.
Some drugs commonly abused in Zimbabwe can lead to addiction very quickly, sometimes after the first use.
Drugs affect the brain by releasing chemicals that make a person feel good, alert, confident, or happy.
The brain remembers this feeling and wants it again. After a short time, the brain struggles to feel normal without the drug. This is how addiction begins. Young people are at higher risk because their brains are still developing. Stress, unemployment, peer pressure, boredom, and family problems also make people more likely to try drugs.
One commonly abused substance is mutoriro, also known as crystal meth. Mutoriro is a very strong stimulant that gives a powerful rush of energy and pleasure. Because the effect is so strong and comes quickly, first-time users can easily want more.
Repeated use changes the brain, leading to dependence and addiction. Long-term use can cause severe mental health problems, including paranoia, hallucinations, anxiety, and depression. It can also damage the heart, liver, kidneys, and teeth, and can lead to violent behaviour or social isolation.
Bronco and other cough syrups that contain codeine are also commonly abused. Codeine is a strong drug meant for pain and cough when used correctly.
When taken in large amounts or without medical need, it causes relaxation and a false feeling of happiness.
Even first-time misuse can lead to dependence. When the drug wears off, the person feels unwell, anxious, and develops strong cravings, which pushes them to take more.
These syrups can slow breathing, especially when mixed with alcohol, and this can lead to coma or death. Long-term use results in addiction, poor concentration, and serious social problems.
Alcohol and cannabis are also widely abused. Alcohol is often seen as normal, but it is addictive and causes liver disease, road accidents, violence, and family breakdown.
Cannabis can affect memory, motivation, and mental health, especially in young users, and can interfere with school and work performance.
Many people get hooked because friends encourage them or tell them the drug is harmless. Others use drugs to escape stress, poverty, or emotional pain. The good feeling from the first use tricks the brain into wanting more. Over time, the person no longer uses the drug to feel good, but to avoid feeling sick or uncomfortable.
Drug addiction damages both health and life. It leads to physical illness, mental health problems, poor school performance, job loss, crime, and family conflict. Many people who are addicted feel ashamed and trapped, but addiction is not a moral failure. It is a medical condition that needs help and support.
Education, open discussion, family support, counselling, and medical treatment can help prevent addiction and support recovery. We must stop ignoring the problem and start addressing it honestly. There is no safe drug for abuse. Mutoriro, Bronco, and other commonly misused substances can trap a person after just one or two uses. Addiction does not choose by age, wealth, or background.
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