Trust Freddy
Herald Correspondent
MORE than 4 250 individuals recovering from drug and substance abuse received psychosocial support services across Zimbabwe over the past two months as the Government intensifies efforts to expand community reintegration programmes.
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Edgar Moyo, revealed this during a Press briefing on the Community Reintegration and Psychosocial Support Pillar on Monday.
Of the 4 258 individuals reached, Minister Moyo said 1 871 received support through provincial structures, 1 560 through partner organisations, while 827 accessed assistance through the toll-free psychosocial support line, 406.
“Community reintegration remains a critical component of the national response because recovery from drug and substance abuse does not end when an individual completes treatment or rehabilitation,” said Minister Moyo.
“It is a continuing process of restoring relationships, rebuilding confidence, supporting families and enabling individuals to resume productive and meaningful lives.”
The Minister said the figures demonstrate both the growing demand for psychosocial support and the importance of making services available through multiple and accessible channels.
Psychosocial support provides individuals and families affected by drug and substance abuse with counselling, emotional support, guidance, referrals and assistance to help them cope with the social and psychological challenges associated with substance use.
Minister Moyo said the toll-free line, 406, was critical in increasing access to support for people in remote communities, young people reluctant to visit offices, and families requiring immediate guidance.
“I, therefore, wish to encourage individuals and families affected by drug and substance abuse to seek assistance early and without fear or stigma.
“Parents and caregivers, in particular, should not wait until a situation becomes unmanageable before seeking professional psychosocial support,” he said.
He called on Government ministries, departments and agencies, civil society organisations, faith-based organisations, development partners, traditional leaders and religious leaders to strengthen the provision of psychosocial support services.
The Minister further encouraged members of the public to make use of Social Development Offices across the country, where services are available free of charge.
“As Government, we remain committed to strengthening community-based services, expanding access to psychosocial support and ensuring effective referral and reintegration pathways for individuals and families affected by drug and substance abuse,” said Minister Moyo.
“Let us remember that recovery is a journey, and no one should walk that journey alone.
“By supporting individuals, strengthening families and empowering communities, we can prevent relapse, restore dignity and give our citizens a genuine opportunity to rebuild their lives.”
Source: 4 258 receive drug abuse recovery support – herald
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