By Lovina Manyara
In today’s dynamic world, promoting sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) among children and adolescents is of paramount importance. As young individuals navigate the complexities of adolescence and adulthood, they face numerous challenges related to their sexual and reproductive well-being. Building resilience among children and adolescents is essential to equip them with the life skills that will enable them make informed decisions about their SRHR. This article explores the significance of resilience-building in the context of SRHR and highlights key strategies to foster resilience among young people.
Resilience refers to the ability to adapt positively to adverse circumstances and bounce back from challenging experiences. In the context of SRHR, building resilience among children and adolescents means empowering them to make healthy choices, navigate relationships, and protect their physical and emotional well-being.
Children and adolescents encounter various challenges in the realm of SRHR. The main challenge being the lack of comprehensive sexual education. Many young individuals receive inadequate or incorrect information about SRHR due to societal taboos, cultural norms, and limited access to comprehensive sexuality education. This knowledge gap can lead to misunderstanding, misinformation, and unhealthy practices. To address this issue therefore, requires implementing age-appropriate and culturally sensitive comprehensive sexuality education in schools and communities. Providing accurate information about SRHR, consent, healthy relationships, and reproductive choices empowers young people to make informed decisions and promotes a positive attitude towards their own sexuality.
Stigmatization and discrimination related to sexuality, gender identity, and sexual orientation poses another significant challenge. These societal attitudes can severely impact young individuals’ mental health and deter them from seeking essential SRHR services. To combat stigma and discrimination, it is essential to promote campaigns and initiatives that challenge stereotypes and foster an inclusive environment where all young individuals can freely express their sexual orientation and identity without fear of judgment or discrimination. Creating safe spaces for peer support can also reduce feelings of isolation and foster a sense of community among young people, allowing them to share experiences, concerns, and knowledge.
Furthermore, peer pressure and the influence of social media can lead to risky behaviors and decisions regarding SRHR. Children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to the pressures of their peers and the content they consume online. Equipping young individuals with digital and media literacy skills can help them critically assess online information and reduce exposure to harmful content and misinformation. Educating them about the potential consequences of their actions and encouraging them to make informed choices can empower them to resist negative peer influence and make decisions that prioritize their well-being.
Early and unintended pregnancies pose significant challenges for young individuals. Unplanned pregnancies can also disrupt their lives, affecting their education, employment opportunities, and overall well-being. To address this issue, establishing youth-friendly SRHR services that are confidential, non-judgmental, and accessible becomes vital. Providing young people with a supportive and safe environment where they can seek assistance without fear of discrimination or social repercussions can encourage them to access the necessary care and support.
Similarly, the lack of knowledge and access to contraceptives can expose young individuals to the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV/AIDS. Comprehensive sexuality education should also include information about contraceptive methods and their effectiveness. Additionally, increasing access to affordable and quality contraceptive services can empower young people to protect themselves from STIs and unplanned pregnancies.
Involving parents and guardians in SRHR discussions is also crucial. Creating an open and supportive home environment where parents can communicate effectively with their children about SRHR fosters trust and understanding. When young people receive support and guidance from their families, they are more likely to make responsible and informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.
Moreover, encouraging positive role models and mentors who promote healthy relationships and responsible SRHR choices can have a significant impact on young individuals. These role models can inspire and guide young people as they navigate the complexities of adolescence and adulthood.
In conclusion, building resilience among children and adolescents in the context of SRHR is a multifaceted endeavor that requires the collaboration of governments, policymakers, educators, healthcare providers, families, and communities. By empowering young individuals with comprehensive knowledge, a supportive environment, and the ability to make informed choices, we can equip them to navigate the challenges of adolescence with confidence and lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Resilience-building in SRHR is not just an investment in the present but also a step towards a more inclusive and empowered future for the younger generation.
Lovina Manyara is a lawyer and SRHR Advocate at NAYA. SAIC II
