Family conflicts rise students’ mental health challenges

ZANZIBAR: LACK of stability and the increasing prevalence of family conflicts have been identified as key factors putting students at risk of mental health issues in Zanzibar, experts have warned.

 According to Ms Zaitun Shaaban Salum, the Director General of Zanzibar Mental Health Support Organisation (ZMHSO), the challenges have prompted her organisation to launch an educational initiative campaign aimed at equipping students with knowledge on how to cope with mental health problems.

Speaking to students at Kiembesamaki Secondary School during the initiative’s rollout, Ms Salum highlighted the significant impact of family breakdowns on students’ academic performance.

She explained that “Children often lose interest in learning when their parents separate, experience mistreatment or abuse, or struggle without support, ultimately leading to poor academic results.”

 The DG further said that lack of a supportive environment at home, school, or within the community contributes to feelings of neglect and low self-worth among students.

 “Marital or family conflicts have a major impact on a child’s mental well-being. In many cases, parents shift responsibilities onto each other, leading to emotional distress in children,” she said.

 The ZMHSO boss pointed out that students affected by family disputes suffer from severe stress, which negatively affects their academic performance and overall mental health.

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 To address this growing concern, Ms Salum   said that the project aims to reach over 50 secondary schools across Zanzibar, beginning with Dr John Pombe Magufuli and Kiembesamaki secondary schools in Unguja.

 “Through our research, we found that this problem is prevalent among students, and even teachers acknowledge it. Some bright students suddenly lose focus and enthusiasm in class, and when questioned, they mention conflicts at home being the cause. Unfortunately, many parents remain unaware of their children’s mental health conditions,” she explained.

The primary goal of the initiative, she added, is to ensure students achieve their academic aspirations without being derailed by anxiety and depression.

Speaking at the event, Ms Fatma Mbarak Hashim, an official from the Inclusive Education Unit under the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training, commended the initiative for its role in supporting students’ mental well-being.

She mentioned that the Zanzibar education policy mandates all public and private schools to have specialised psychology and counselling teachers to identify and address students’ mental health challenges.

“These teachers not only conduct classroom lessons but also monitor students’ mental well-being and intervene to prevent academic disruptions,” Ms Fatma explained.

She also urged parents and guardians to prioritise their children’s comfort, emphasising that separation should not be an excuse for neglecting parental responsibilities or causing emotional harm.

Kiembesamaki Secondary School ‘B’ Principal, Mr Yussuf Mohammed Khamis, welcomed the initiative, noting that many students require psychological guidance to stay focused on their studies.

“Children/students need to understand the sacrifices their parents make to provide them with education and recognise its value for their future,” he said adding challenges contribute to declining academic performance in national examinations and called on parents to engage in open discussions with their children about the importance of education.

Form One students who participated in the event expressed their gratitude for receiving mental health awareness.