Many youths depressed, abusing drugs because of bad economy

A Relationship and Marriage Counsellor, Mr Femi Oke, has cautioned youths against substance abuse and drug addiction.

Oke, a member of African Network of Professional Counsellors (ANEPCO), gave the advice on Saturday in Lagos.

The expert spoke on the sidelines of ANEPCO summit, with the theme: “Finding Hope in a Declining Economy.”

According to him, Nigerian youths need to keep hope alive, in spite of the challenges the country is going through.

He said that the prevailing challenges called for sober reflection and positive thinking, instead of taking to substance abuse and drug addiction.

Oke noted that counsellors were trained to offer help in moments like this, urging youths to seize the opportunity to seek professional help that would turn their behaviours around.

“It is obvious that the economy of the country is in a challenging state and this is impacting negatively on the younger generation.

“Some have lost hope in themselves and in the country as a result of this.

“Some have even resorted to substance abuse, criminality and other social vices, while many others are wallowing in depression.

“The summit encouraged counsellors and other care givers to stand in the gap and help in restoring hope to others in times like this through our professional expertise,” Oke said.

Federal Government says it is doing everything possible to reduce the number of youths in the labour market, especially through its various social intervention programmes.