Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
AS the nation joins the rest of the world in commemorating World Suicide Prevention Day, mental health experts have raised a red flag on the growing connection between drug and substance abuse and suicidal tendencies among youths, warning that the scourge has reached crisis levels.
A mental health expert, Mr Marvin Musekiwa, said suicide is no longer an issue that communities can afford to ignore, as its devastating link with drug and substance abuse is claiming lives, and destroying families.
“As we join the rest of the world in commemorating World Suicide Prevention Day, a day recognised globally as a platform to raise awareness on mental health and suicide prevention, we are reminded of the urgent need to act.
‘‘This year’s commemoration ran under the theme: ‘Change the narrative on suicide’, calling on communities, institutions, and individuals to collectively reshape how suicide is understood and addressed,” he said.
Mr Musekiwa said drug and substance abuse is one of the biggest drivers of suicidal thoughts among youths.
“Our work with youths shows us that silence and stigma are among the biggest barriers to effective suicide prevention in Manicaland and Zimbabwe at large. Many young people feel isolated and unable to share their mental health struggles due to societal perceptions and cultural attitudes that discourage open discussion about suicide.
‘‘At the same time, many of them are turning to drugs and substances as a way of coping. Unfortunately, this compound the situation and increases the risk of suicide,” he said.
He said while they provide online counselling sessions to young people across the province, they have managed to create a safe and confidential space where youths can seek help.
“We realised that online counselling sessions are bridging critical gaps in mental health service delivery, especially in remote areas.
‘‘Many young people prefer online platforms because they offer anonymity and privacy, which makes it easier for them to express themselves honestly. The demand for online counselling is growing, showing that young people are willing to seek help when safe channels are made available,” he said.
Mr Musekiwa added that suicide prevention cannot be achieved without tackling drug and substance abuse as a national emergency.
“We must begin to view drug and substance abuse as a social disaster that directly threatens the future of our youths. Suicide is, not just a personal tragedy; it is a societal failure.
‘‘That is why we are calling for suicide prevention strategies to be integrated into disaster risk reduction frameworks. If Government, development partners, and civil society treat drug abuse as part of disaster risk management, resources can be better allocated, and proactive policies can be created to address, not just the symptoms, but the root causes of this crisis,” he said.
Mr Musekiwa further stressed the importance of partnerships, noting that civil society organisations cannot tackle the problem alone.
“Collaboration between Government, community leaders, schools, churches, and development partners is critical. We need a whole-of-society approach.
‘‘Only then can we build sustainable initiatives that provide prevention, support, and treatment to those who need it most,” he said.
In a separate interview, a research and technical services expert, Miss Chido Tsakatsa, also stressed the connection between drug abuse and suicidal ideation.
She explained that young people who abuse drugs report significantly higher rates of suicidal thoughts compared to those who do not engage in substance abuse.
“The evidence is alarming. Most youths who abuse drugs are also reporting suicidal thoughts. This shows a clear link that cannot be ignored.
‘‘Drug abuse does not solve stress, depression, or hopelessness.
Instead, it worsens mental health conditions, and traps young people in cycles of dependency and despair. Early intervention is crucial,” she said.
Miss Tsakatsa said while many young people are resorting to drugs as a coping mechanism, the reality is that substances creates a false sense of relief, while deepening feelings of helplessness.
“Young people often turn to drugs thinking they will forget their problems, but in reality, the problems remain and are compounded by addiction.
‘‘That is why we are working tirelessly to educate them on the harmful effects of drug abuse, and to provide healthier coping mechanisms.
Awareness campaigns, workshops, and community dialogues have become our tools to reach both urban and rural communities. By fostering open conversations, we hope to dismantle myths surrounding drug abuse and mental health,” she said.
She said as a result, they have intensified their efforts to provide preventive education, saying schools must be at the centre of the campaign.
“We need to equip teachers, parents, and peer leaders with the skills to identify warning signs of depression, drug abuse, and suicidal ideation. These cases often begin in schools, and if detected early, many lives can be saved. Communities must learn to recognise these signs before young people reach crisis points,” said Miss Tsakatsa.
Miss Tsakatsa also appealed for more investment in digital health platforms, which she said are proving to be a lifeline for many young people.
“The fact that young people are embracing online counselling shows that they want to seek help. It is now up to stakeholders to make sure these platforms are accessible, affordable, and sustainable. More investment in digital health can scale up mental health support across Zimbabwe,” she said.
