POLOKWANE – The word ‘substance’ is a general word for alcohol and drugs that can alter your mood.
This can include over the counter medication, prescribed medication, alcohol an illegal drugs like cocaine and heroin.
Abuse is when you use a substance in a way that it is not intended or recommended, or when you are using more than is prescribed.
Today is Substance Abuse Awareness Day and according to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag), ‘substance’ can also include severe addictive behaviour like binge drinking.
For over 10 years, the National Department of Social Development, in partnership with Sadag, has run a 24-hour Substance Abuse Helpline. This tool is important to reach those people who have issues with drugs, alcohol and other addictions. For many people who don’t have resources or know how to get help, there are now various options such as the free Helpline, SMS, Online counselling and Facebook page.
Here’s how you can get help:
– The 24-hour Substance Abuse Helpline (0800 12 13 14) offers free telephonic counselling, referrals and support. The Helpline is available seven days a week nationwide.
– To help encourage people to reach out, Sadag have created an online “contact the counsellor” button. By clicking on the button and filling in the short online form with your details, once you click “submit”, a counsellor will get your details and contact you to help further.
– If you’re contemplating speaking to a councillor and can’t speak at work or at home? You can make use of the online counselling via your computer or cellphone. Click Online Counselling to chat to a counsellor Monday to Sunday 10:00 till 14:00 daily.
– To learn more about Substance Abuse resources and tips on a daily basis follow the Ke Moja Substance Abuse Facebook Page.
– If you are unable to call Sadag, you can sms them at 32312 and a counsellor will call you back.
On Friday, 29 June, there will be a Facebook Friday Live Chat where you can learn more about drug abuse, binge drinking, gambling addiction, substance abuse in the workplace, treatments and how to help a loved one.
Join the live #FacebookFriday online chat on 29 June. Take part in the expert Questions and Answers at 13:00 and at 19:00 with a psychiatrist and psychologist on the Facebook page: The South African Depression and Anxiety Group.
