Engaging youth with research on substance abuse through performing arts

STATUS: Current
PROJECT LEADER:Lunga, W (Dr Wilfred)
OTHER TEAM MEMBERS: Govender, K (Ms Koshen), Reddy, D (Ms Deshanie), Hongoro, C (Prof. Charles), Walters, M (Ms Melissa), Tirivanhu, P (Dr Precious), Ramaphakela, TH (Ms Tshegofatso), Chavalala, B (Dr Bongani), Majikijela, Y (Ms Yamkela)
DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBLE: Developmental, Capable and Ethical State (DCES)

Abstract

The prevalence of substance abuse among the youth, especially in rural areas such as the Limpopo province of South Africa continues to be a cause for concern . There is very little understanding of mental health problems caused by substance abuse, despite the existence of a large body of research in the topic. The relative lack of knowledge is exacerbated by lack of capacity and ability to access and engage with data on substance abuse and mental health. Available datasets such as the SABSSM (2018) and South African Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use ( SANCEDU) 2018 contain valuable information that can be used to create awareness about the mental health problems associated with substance abuse, and facilitate deterrent behaviours among the youth.

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