By Santos Zefania

Lilongwe, 23 April Mana: Professional Psychosocial Counsellor for Bwaila hospital, Chandulo Kayira, conducted a youth counselling session on behaviourism affecting mental and emotional wellness in Area 23, Lilongwe

Speaking during the visit on Tuesday, he stated that some lifestyles are costing their health and wellbeing, hence negatively affecting their mindset.

"Too much exposure to technology has brought serious issues. instead of doing small businesses, they wish to create wealth within a short period of time without hard work, such as spending a lot of time on premier betting zones, which they have suggested as an alternative way of making instant money, hence, this has led to corruption and gambling behaviour among the youth.

“Another mental and emotional challenge facing youth is drugs and substance abuse, leading to aggressive and potentially dangerous behavior, putting them addicted to a certain behavior, henceforth exposed and also leading to crimes resulting in injuries, perhaps deaths,” he stated.

In another statement, despite being addicted to bad behaviors several factors should make them stay positive.

Kayira said frequent failures to get what they want in life should not result in drug abuse or committing suicide; however, having mentors and role models to navigate difficult situations is essential

Apostle Duncan Kachepa highlighted the importance of religious leaders joining hands with teachers and other motivational speakers would help to promote life expectancy among the youth.

“If we want to build future leaders of tomorrow, we better invest in our youth of today. however, religious leaders should also bear responsibilities in assisting them to cope with the situation, leading stress and anxiety and managing it accordingly,” he said.

One of the beneficiaries, Victor Chinkhota, expressed gratitude following the completion of the lesson.

"I'm glad that the professional counsellor has taught us the crucial importance of seeking counselling from responsible individuals to prevent getting addicted to something that could cost our lives, such as drug abuse, volunteering in different youth clubs and finding productive activities to get involved in”, Victor added.