Just as one would step in and openly offer help to a friend if they were sick or needed a favour, communities need to intervene and help friends and family who are addicted to drugs – you could just be saving that person’s life, says Clinix Health Group.
Looking ahead to the SA National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA) Drug Awareness Week from 24 to 28 June, Group Nursing Service Manager, Bernadette Campbell, highlights the fact that addiction isn’t just a “problem” but a medically proven disease which is life-threatening if left untreated.
“It’s easy enough to recognise the symptoms and behaviours associated with drug addiction but it’s not easy to talk about something as sensitive as drug use. While it’s hard to be a friend to someone abusing drugs, we need to realise that it’s the time when they need us most.”
Campbell confirms that the drug most commonly used in the communities the Clinix Health Group serves is nyaope, also commonly known as whoonga. It’s a concoction of lethal substances that is usually combined with dagga and smoked.
The ingredients nyaope is made up of varies from place to place and it’s never really clear what’s in it. The ingredients have known to include anything from heroin and detergent powder to rat poison and crushed anti-retrovirals.
“Relatively cheap on the street and highly addictive, it’s become the drug of choice in informal settlements across South Africa and is wreaking havoc amongst our youth.”
So what is the best way to approach a friend you know is addicted?
Campbell suggests the best time is when the person is clear-headed and it would be a good idea to have someone with you who understands your concerns or has previous experience is helping someone with addiction. Importantly, don’t think that you’ll be ruining the friendship if you bring the subject up.
“Many people feel this way but are surprised to find quite the opposite reaction. Drug addicts are often secretly hoping for help by talking honestly to someone about their problem.”
Things to keep in mind when trying to help:
Don’t criticise or judge. You’re talking because you care about the person’s life and health, not because they’re a bad person.
Be specific. Talk about instances when the friend may have cancelled plans or broken their word, using phrases like “I’m concerned” or “I’ve noticed”, to make it clear that these are your feelings of concern.
Talk about the bigger problem. Tell them how concerned you are about the effect their drug use is having on their family and friends.
Don’t despair. Many addicts will deny they have a problem. The main thing is that you’ve planted a seed of recovery by talking to them. Always stick to the facts, listen, show a caring attitude and offer to help.
“You shouldn’t turn a blind eye to drug abuse. Many people end up in hospital and lose their lives due to drugs and it’s a leading cause of death all over the world. By talking to a friend or family member about their addiction, you may literally be saving their life, as well as helping them to get their life back on track,” Campbell concludes.
