Drug addiction takes a toll in SA
JOBURG - Easy access to high-quality and relatively cheap illegal drugs, coupled with high levels of unemployment, trauma, violence and the deterioration of social support by family members, friends and the community, has led to a steady increase in the incidences of drug abuse and addiction in South Africa.
Drug addiction is steadily increasing in South Africa which, with so much unemployment, has created a perpetual cycle of poverty and drug abuse which further exasperates the situation due to its negative impact on productivity.
Nathan Rogerson, clinical psychologist at Akeso Psychiatric Clinic in Pietermaritzburg, pointed out that the excessive consumption of any mind-altering substance causes significant harm to a person’s functioning and mental well-being, making him or her productively unfit.
“[Drug abuse] differs from drug dependence in that there aren’t strong symptoms of physical dependence yet, but as tolerance increases, drug addiction sets in. And the longer an addiction entrenches itself in a person’s life, the harder it is to get rid of it,” he explained.
While experimentation with drugs typically starts in early adolescence, addiction can occur at a much younger age. “It is not unusual to come across children who are addicted to glue or inhalants from a very young age. I have encountered children as young as six years old who have become addicted,” he continued.
Alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, heroin, cocaine and Mandrax are the most common drugs abused in South Africa.
Stimulants like ephedrine, methamphetamine and methylphenidate (Ritalin) are also commonly abused.
The prolonged use of these drugs can cause long-term health problems for the user, which can be visible soon after the onset of the addiction.
The clinic encourages family and friends to be involved in the addict’s journey to health and recovery.
Drug Awareness Week runs from 24 to 28 June, but the prevention of drug addiction within South Africa is ongoing.
Details: 0861 4357 87; 011 234 4837; www.sadag.org
