Substance dependency statistics indicate that drug consumption (cannabis, cocaine, and Tik) in South Africa is double the global average (UN World Drug Report, 2014). The average age of drug dependency in South Africa is 12 years and decreasing. South Africa is among the top 10 narcotics and alcohol abusers in the world. Fifteen percent of the population has a drug problem and for every R100 in circulation, R25 are linked to the substance abuse problem (Christian Addiction Support, 2016).

Drug and Alcohol dependency is undermining the foundation of the South African society and it is often linked to other social ills (such as, violent crime, gender-based violence, child abuse, and the ever increasing HIV/AIDS incidence rates). The South African youth are particularly vulnerable to the experimentation and long-term use of substances (whether it be alcohol, illicit drugs, or even over-the-counter, and prescription medication). The cost to the country is measured not merely in Rand, but also in loss of creativity, innovation, artistry, skills, to name a few.

As endemic as the problem of substance abuse within the country is, many South Africans know very little about the problem and how it may be affecting them personally. Secondly, many people are unaware of the difficulties faced by substance dependents when first entering treatment and the long-term battle they are faced with during recovery.  The misconception that addicts have a choice every time they use has led to the idea that active addiction is fuelled by the irrational and selfish behaviours of individuals themselves. However, addiction is much more complex than this simple explanation. The drive to continue using is often increased by the psychological and physical needs of the addict and treatment is much more intricate than just stopping.

The purpose of the ‘KICK your HABIT’ campaign during SANCA’s Drug Awareness Week, 23-30 June, is to raise awareness of the complexities related to addiction.

The campaign seeks to promote awareness through experience; by challenging individuals within our communities to stop using one ‘thing’ for one week and experience, albeit briefly, what a substance dependent may endure during treatment. With experience comes knowledge and this is the ultimate aim of the campaign. Whether this ‘thing’ is caffeine, tobacco, chocolate, or shopping, it is entirely up to the individual’s discretion; however, it is important to consider your choice and select the habit that you can identify using frequently.

SANCA appeals to all South Africans to join our campaign and to challenge each other during the week.  One can quit coffee, nicotine, chocolates or carbs. During June we also request the community to show their support against drug abuse by decorating a tree with yellow material or ribbon. Through raising awareness of the difficulties related to substance abuse, we take a step closer to reduce the incidence of substance dependency within our country. It is our responsibility as South African citizens to work in partnership to build a thriving future for the next generation.

For more information about the challenge, treatment or prevention programs, please contact the SANCA Outpatient Centres:

Vanderbijlpark:   T:  016 933 2052/5 or E: sancavaal@mweb.co.za

Sasolburg:            T:  016-976-2051 or E: d.venter@vodamail.co.za