Understanding substance abuse and addiction in South Africa

Large numbers of South Africans suffer the effects of drug and alcohol abuse each day, but no matter how helpless the situation may seem, it is never late to get help.

As in other countries, substance abuse is a significant social issue that is getting worse every day.

As stated by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group, some of the most commonly used substances in this nation are alcohol, marijuana (dagga), cocaine, tik, and heroin (SADAG). While there is no cure-all for addiction and substance abuse, patients and their loved ones can get assistance.

According to Marna Acker, an occupational therapist at Akeso Clinic Nelspruit, "given some of the scary statistics on drug addiction in the country, there is an immediate need to teach people on the dangers and the treatments available." The absence of consistent, representative samples on substance misuse in South Africa makes it challenging to comprehend the full scope of the issue. Only those who have been admitted for treatment have access to the statistics.

However, the South African Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use (SACENDU) initiative, which is a sentinel surveillance system for alcohol and other drugs (AOD) and is active in nine provinces, demonstrates that there has been an increase in the number of people admitted for spiritual treatment, going from 8 787 in 2016 to 10 047 in 2017, across 80 centers.

What motivates people to abuse drugs?

Some people are more vulnerable than others to substance abuse and the onset of addiction disorders. According to Acker, a variety of factors, such as genetics, family history, mental health conditions, work stress, financial strain, and interpersonal issues, can make people more susceptible.

"These elements may influence the vulnerable person to value drug addiction as a coping strategy even though it goes against their long-term interests. Peer pressure, especially when substance use is the norm, boredom, and a sense of purposelessness, as well as depression, stress, and lack of control, are additional factors that may be at play.

Impacts of drug addiction over time

Although substances have various effects, the most frequent long-term side effects of substance abuse are depression, anxiety, and paranoia. The longer a habit lasts, the more pressure and stress it puts on the individual.

According to Acker, marijuana users, for instance, may have short attention spans, as well as learning and memory loss. Poor performance, long-term cognitive impairment, a lack of drive, immunosuppression, and complications with the heart and lungs are all frequent outcomes.

Also possible is cannabis-induced psychosis. It has been shown in numerous studies that marijuana use increases the risk of developing psychiatric disorders like psychosis, depressed mood, distress, and substance abuse disorders, though it is not always clear whether or how much marijuana use causes these disorders. In addition to all these potential consequences, regular cannabis use can harm communication skills, productivity at work, money management, and other areas. The list goes on forever.

All drug abuse can result in impulsive behaviour and poor judgement, which adds another layer of complexity. While opioids, such as morphine and the illegal drug heroin, can cause accidental overdose, alcohol abuse increases the risk of contracting HIV infection and other sexually transmitted illnesses, as well as kidney diseases, neurological disorders, and chronic memory disorders. Addiction to drugs can occasionally make a person more likely to experience mental illness.

Acker continues, "Long-term substance abuse can also affect the user's physical health, especially the liver, digestive system, heart, and lungs." "Increased tolerance is risky because it leads someone to use more and more drugs to get the intended feeling of euphoria or stimulated state. The likelihood of a drug overdose or even death rises as a result.

Observable symptoms and signs

You or a loved one may display some or all of the physical, psychological, and social symptoms listed below if they are dependent on drugs or alcohol:

Skin outbreaks, skin color changes, and weight loss
intense compulsions as the addiction grows
symptoms of withdrawal that cause poor performance and a physical craving
Depression, anxiety, paranoia, and isolation
unhealthy relationships with friends who share your habits
financial difficulties brought on by excessive spending on alcohol or drugs
ignoring obligations, whether they be personal or professional
Poor judgment, including risky activities like stealing, lying, having inappropriate sex, drug dealing, or offenses that could result in jail time
What kinds of therapies are offered?

Organizations like the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependences (SANCA), Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), and Narcotics Anonymous offer outpatient programs (NA). Addiction clinics across the nation offer shorter-term inpatient programs (21 to 30 days) that include detoxification and longer-term inpatient programs (90 days to a year or more). For instance, Akeso Clinics provides an inpatient program with a multidisciplinary team approach that focuses on addictive behaviors and other psychiatric problems (dual diagnosis).

Relapse is very prevalent, the recovery process lasts a lifetime, and there is no surefire formula for success, according to Acker. Because of this, it's crucial for those struggling with addictions to receive regular counseling and therapy, participate in support groups, and have an easy fix.

Encourage a friend or family member to get professional help if you think they have an addiction. Avoid attempting to be that competent yourself. Remember that drug use condition is a disease and be supportive. Set boundaries, watch out for manipulation, and refrain from taking any actions that encourage the disorder. Be sure to hold family support sessions as well, as these can be instructive and helpful.