Africa-Press – Namibia. NAMIBIA’S first lady, Monica Geingos, says a clear link exists between substance abuse and mental health.
Children will only approach their parents with their problems when they feel safe, she says.
“When someone falls prey to an addiction such as gambling, pornography, or weed, it can be as a result of mental health problems,” Geingos said at the Women’s Empowerment Dinner with //Kharas governor Aletha Frederick at Keetmanshoop on Friday.
This was part of her ‘Fireside Chat’ campaign to address issues affecting women and children.
Geingos urged women to manage their finances well – especially now that the cost of living has spiked dramatically.
She said it is crucial for women to pursue extra sources of income, and avoid impulsively spending their money.
“There are small steps women can take to manage their money. Don’t adjust your lifestyle too drastically after receiving a pay rise. Be ready by saving the money you already have. Live within your means, and the best investment is to get rid of debt,” she said.
Geingos said in light of prevalent gender-based violence (GBV), access to finances is crucial for women in this situation, since it provides them the option to leave a relationship.
She said telling a woman to leave makes her vulnerable to financial, physical, and emotional risk.
Women therefore ought to encourage one another to become financially and emotionally strong.
“In an abusive relationship, the first thing that is taken away from the victim is their self-esteem. Reach out to a church or a psychologist. We should all learn how to de-escalate conflict. No matter how angry you are in that conversation, de-escalate and continue when everyone is calm,” she said.
“Find someone you can confide in. Being able to offload burdens is important. Some of the things we hold on to are often the things that make us sick. You don’t have to tell everyone what you’re going through, but find someone you can trust,” she said.
Frederick at the same event said another challenge women are faced with is raising children as many find themselves being single parents.
She said parents need to be informed and educate themselves about drug and substance abuse.
“Parents need to learn to understand the terminology, signs and patterns related to substance abuse. If the person you love does not want to talk to you, you need to talk to someone else who can help you,” she said.
She encouraged parents to develop a culture of speaking openly to their children without judging or belittling them over their experiences.
“We need to adjust to the new environment and talk straight about the issues our children are faced with,” Frederick said.
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