6 • MUDULE NINE: SUBSTANCE USE
- Failure in school/work;
- Trouble with the police;
- Getting STIs or HIV;
- Having sex;
- Taking risks; and/or
- Problems with family, friends and at work.
- Ask the children why some people do not take any of the above substances
- Bad for health
- Illegal (in some cases)
- To avoid risk of HIV
- Can solve problems in other ways (meet a friend if lonely, play a game)
- Have better ways to relax
- Values prevent me from taking drugs
- Want to be in control of myself
- Friends cannot push me
10.What could R have done to avoid the HIV risk situation? Ask the children to suggest a different
ending to the story incorporating this idea. Do a role play with different endings.
Review- What did the children feel about this session?
- Is it important to discuss issues of substance use with young people?
Linking Learning With Life
A variety of activities can take place. Children can decide if they need to know more about the
effects of substance use. They can visit a de-addiction center and interview a patient and the
family. They can also meet someone who was formerly a drug addict and is willing to share
experiences.
Children can map the places (if it is safe to do so) where legal and illegal drugs can be obtained.
They can also map the bars where alcohol is available in the community.
Children may offer other suggestions such as interviewing friends, gathering information and doing
a street play or informing other young people.