Unemployment is emerging as one of the biggest causes of stress in communities today, according to Empower Pacific counsellor Eliki Baleinalaba.
Speaking at a workshop organised by Aruka Fiji at Macuata House in Labasa, he said not having a job often leads to serious social problems, including drug abuse and negative peer influence.
“When young people are unemployed, they are more likely to give in to peer pressure, and this is where things start to go wrong,” he said.
He explained that unemployment affects more than just income.
“When people cannot buy food or meet their basic needs, it affects them mentally.
“They also lack support and hear negative comments every day.”
These pressures, he said, can push people toward harmful behaviours.
“Some end up mixing with the wrong group of people, and if they are not careful, this can lead them into trouble.”
Sharing the experience of a male client he counselled last year, Mr Baleinalaba said support can make a difference.
“Through counselling, he was able to understand his problems.
“We helped him with the support of social services to meet his psychosocial needs.”
He urged families and community leaders to provide guidance to unemployed people. “If unemployment is not addressed, more young people will continue to struggle. This can lead to drug abuse and other issues that affect families and communities.”
