The four contributing factors that may lead to an increase in learners abusing substances at school are:
- Peer pressure: Learners often feel the need to fit in with their peers, and if their social group engages in substance use, they may be influenced to do the same to avoid social exclusion
- Family environment and parental influence: Dysfunctional family settings, parental or sibling substance abuse, and lack of parental supervision can increase the risk of learners abusing substances
- Mental health issues: Conditions such as depression, anxiety, and stress may drive learners to use substances as a coping mechanism for emotional pain or academic and social pressures
- Availability and accessibility of substances: Easy access to drugs and alcohol, whether through social networks or local availability, raises the likelihood of experimentation and abuse among learners
These factors collectively contribute to the rise in substance abuse among students in educational institutions.
