Emihle Baduza: People often judge young girls, especially if they are already pregnant. At clinics, some nurses don’t treat young people with the kindness they expect when they go there to get help.
Community workers at an event at Minerva Secondary School revealed that youth in Alexandra are becoming increasingly reluctant to go to clinic for help with contraceptives or substance use problem. They further linked substance use to teenage pregnancy.
Voxpops: What makes it difficult for teenagers to seek help at clinics when dealing with substance abuse or pregnancy-related issues?
Zinhle Sithole: I think that, sometimes at clinics, the nurses don’t make young people feel comfortable. It can be hard to open up when they feel like they are being judged.
Kgaugelo Mtjekane: Sometimes nurses do not speak to young people in a way that feels supportive. Instead of advising young people accordingly, they ask questions and make statements that make them feel bad.
Somila Soka: My hypothesis is that friends often judge each other or influence in ways they may not like. I think that makes it harder for them to make their own choices about going to the clinic.
A multimedia journalist with a passion for telling stories that reflect the community’s triumphs and challenges. Itumeleng focuses on social issues and local initiatives, with coverage spanning multiple beats including sports, crime, courts, entertainment, and education.
