Project educates community about the dangers of substance use
NORWOOD – Bayever advises parents to learn to observe and understand abnormal behavior in their children, though users are experts at concealing their addiction.
The #LeanOnMe project has been launched in the Norwood community to drive education and awareness about codeine addiction.
The project was commissioned by Adcock Ingram and is a collaboration between stakeholders including the community, the police, pharmacies, pharmaceutical companies and like-minded bodies concerning the dangers associated with the misuse of codeine and other substances.
Substance abuse expert and member of the department of pharmacy and pharmacology at Wits University, David Bayever explained that lean was a mixture of codeine found in cough mixtures, along with other ingredients including fizzy drinks.
“Adolescents often get together with friends to make lean. They are enticed to see how much they can drink before they lose control and this is glorified by TikTok challenges our youth enjoy watching. It is also glorified by the media and pop culture, songs and TV shows. It is mentioned in songs by artists Lil’ Wayne, Justin Bieber and Rob Kardashian,” said Bayever.
He said codeine was a licit substance, meaning that if people were found in possession of it, they would not be prosecuted, making the drug more attractive.
Bayever said when consumed for non-medical purposes in large amounts, it could have extremely harmful effects.
The #LeanOnMe project is focused on schools and tertiary institutions and also urges parents to become aware of signs and symptoms in cases where misuse was taking place. Bayever said the campaign hoped to set up focus groups in schools to discuss the best way of initiating learner awareness and education drives.
He advised parents to learn to observe and understand abnormal behavior in their children, though users were experts at concealing their addiction.
Physical changes may include an abnormal pale complexion, insomnia or sleeping at inappropriate times, frequent illness, changes in appetite, weight loss, neglect of personal appearance etc.
Behavioral changes may include unexplained changes in friends, changes in values, beliefs and frames of reference, unexplained mood swings, anxiety and resentful behavior, and less concern for others’ feelings.
Parents may also find tin foil in their children’s pockets, incense burnt in bedrooms, excessive use of deodorant or eye drops, rolled or twisted cigarettes etc. School performance may also take a drop, with possible increased absenteeism, reduced concentration, tardiness and a change in peer group.
He advised parents to seek help from professionals and not accuse their children before they have all the facts.
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