The Crisis Of Rising Suicide Rates And Disease Spread Among University Students: The Impact Of Parental Neglect And “Wababa” Relationships
By: Sheila Awuor Ndong’a
Over the past decade, universities and other higher education institutions have faced an alarming increase in suicide rates and the spread of infectious diseases among students. Many complex issues contribute to these trends, but a growing body of evidence points to two particularly troubling phenomena: the increasing number of students forming “sponsor” relationships with older men, often referred to as “wababa” or “sugar daddies,” and the withdrawal or decline of parental involvement and support. Together, these dynamics paint a picture of a vulnerable youth population caught between financial pressures, emotional instability, and a lack of guidance from the very people meant to support and protect them.
For many students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, the cost of higher education can be overwhelming. Tuition fees, accommodation, food, and other living expenses often create a financial strain that scholarships, part-time jobs, or limited family support can barely cover. As more students struggle with these burdens, some turn to “wababa” relationships as a means of financial support. While such relationships may offer temporary financial relief, they come with significant social, psychological, and health risks. Parental support is critical for young adults during the transition from high school to university. However, some parents, due to their own financial challenges or a disconnect from the realities their children face, are unable to provide the necessary resources. When students feel abandoned by their families or face relentless financial hardships, the mental and emotional toll can be devastating. This vulnerability not only makes students susceptible to exploitation but also fuels feelings of hopelessness and despair, increasing the risk of mental health issues, including suicidal ideation.
University life is a period marked by significant emotional and social transitions. Many students leave home for the first time, face intense academic pressures, and encounter an entirely new social environment. The absence of a supportive family structure can make this transition overwhelming. When students cannot rely on their families for emotional guidance, they may struggle to cope with stress, depression, and anxiety, leading to feelings of isolation. Moreover, with rising stigma around mental health and a lack of accessible counseling resources on many campuses, students often feel trapped. Without parents providing a supportive environment to talk about their struggles, many young people turn to alternative sources of support, such as peers or social media, where they might encounter superficial or even harmful advice. This lack of a strong support network leaves students vulnerable to making life-threatening decisions.
The financial support that students receive from “wababa” relationships often comes with expectations. Typically, such relationships involve sexual arrangements that, while seemingly consensual, often leave young women at a disadvantage in terms of power dynamics and autonomy. Many of these relationships involve older, wealthier men who may prioritize their own desires over the well-being of their younger partners. As a result, many young women find themselves unable to negotiate safe sexual practices, leading to a higher risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV, HPV, and others. University health centers may offer treatment, but the stigma surrounding STIs and the shame associated with sponsor relationships often prevent students from seeking timely medical care. Left untreated, these infections can have serious long-term health consequences, including infertility, chronic pain, and even life-threatening complications. Additionally, the psychological toll of dealing with illness further compounds feelings of depression and anxiety, intensifying the mental health crisis on campus.
Cultural and societal factors often create a hostile environment for young women involved in “wababa” relationships. Many societies view such arrangements as morally questionable, which adds an additional layer of shame and stigma. This social stigma not only isolates these young women but also hinders them from seeking support or disclosing their struggles to friends or family. They may internalize feelings of guilt or shame, which can amplify pre-existing mental health issues. Furthermore, societal attitudes toward these relationships can sometimes prevent universities from addressing the issue openly, leaving students without adequate support systems.
Social media plays a major role in exacerbating the mental health and self-esteem issues among students. The glamorous portrayal of luxurious lifestyles, designer items, and financial success often pressures students to seek similar lifestyles. Influencers and celebrities create unrealistic expectations that can lead students into relationships with “wababa” to emulate these portrayals. When these young women feel trapped in such relationships, they often experience self-esteem issues, fear of judgment, and a lack of self-worth, which can increase the risk of depression and suicide. Social media also promotes a cycle of comparison, as students who cannot afford these luxuries feel left out or inferior. This contributes to a deteriorating sense of self-worth and may even lead some to rationalize harmful choices in an attempt to keep up with their peers. As this cycle continues, more students fall into financial and emotional dependence on potentially harmful relationships.
Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that involves parents, educational institutions, and society as a whole. Parental involvement is essential in guiding students through their university years. Parents must provide not only financial support but also emotional guidance. Taking the time to discuss budgeting, academic pressures, relationships, and mental health openly can make a significant difference in students’ lives. Additionally, parents need to recognize the challenges their children face and respond with empathy rather than judgment. Universities should prioritize providing accessible mental health resources, such as counseling services, workshops on financial management, and safe spaces for discussions about relationships and health. Proactive mental health programs can help students cope with stress and manage their emotional well-being, ultimately reducing the likelihood of severe mental health crises. Lastly, societal attitudes toward “wababa” relationships and mental health need to evolve. Shaming students involved in these relationships only perpetuates the cycle of guilt and isolation. Society should instead focus on educating young people about the risks associated with these relationships and encouraging open dialogues on campus.
The rise in suicide rates and the spread of infectious diseases on university campuses is an urgent crisis that requires immediate attention. Parents, educators, and society must take collective responsibility to create a supportive environment that protects young adults during this vulnerable period in their lives. By addressing financial, emotional, and societal pressures, we can help students find healthier ways to cope with the challenges they face and ultimately safeguard their futures.
Sheila Awuor Ndong’a (Rongo university)
Similar Posts by The Mt Kenya Times:
- Kenya designates JKIA Gate 16 for Ebola high-risk arrivals in sweeping border health overhaul
- Mbadi warns Kenya’s KSh3.6 trillion revenue target is out of reach
- Modern women are not falling out of love — they are falling into their senses
- The Chinese century: how Beijing is reshaping the world’s technology, industry and influence
- Omtatah petitions JSC to probe judges over Kenya-US health deal ruling
About the Author
