Substance abuse is an enormous social problem in South Africa. Where substances like tik, nyaope and alcohol abuse are devastating society, aggravating poverty and crime, and contributing to homelessness, child abuse and gender violence – making South Africa’s drug consumption twice the world average.
26 June is National Abuse Awareness Day and the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) has opened a live chat on Facebook where psychologists Mich Robb and substance abuse counsellor Lebo Kgabodiso will talk directly to people on the issue of substance abuse. Drugs in SA are not a new issue but the problem is on the rise, the World Health Organisation recently revealed that 15 percent of South Africa’s population have a drug problem.
From 7 to 8pm, support group leader Lorraine Crosson and editor of Addict magazine, Cindy Le Grange will take over the live chats to assist family members and parents identify possible symptoms of substance abuse, tips on how to talk to your loved one about addiction and where to get help and treatment.
“It’s often hard for sufferers and their loved ones to discuss substance abuse issues or get support. “Fear, shame, and guilt, keep many people suffering in silence in the vicious cycle of substance abuse,” said SADAG projects manager Naazia Ismail.
The organisation take into consideration that a lot of families do not have the resources for private rehabs, medication or treatment programmes and that has led to the development and growth of a dedicated substance abuse line that operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
More than 100 substance abuse support group leaders have been trained to run support groups across the country. “Many of us affected by substance abuse keep it hidden, ashamed of what people in our communities will say and it just remains an ‘invincible problem,” noted psychologist Neill Amoore.
Details: 24-Hour Substance Abuse Helpline 0800 12 13 14.
Related article: https://roodepoortnorthsider.co.za/197028/break-the-stigma/
