26/06/2023
June 26th marks WORLD DRUG DAY or International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The World Drug Report 2021 found that young people aged 15–34 are most at risk for using drugs. SADAG reports that in South Africa, the average age for drug dependency is 12 years, with 50% of South African teens consuming alcohol.
Substance abuse is a problematic pattern of consumption of an intoxicating substance leading to clinically significant impairment.
Addiction can be characterised by:
• The inability to consistently abstain from a substance.
• We can observe impairment in behaviour control.
• An evident craving for a substance or for the rewarding experience when ingested.
• Often an individual displays a diminished ability to recognise the significance of their addition.
• Addiction can also be characterised by a dysfunctional emotional response.
• Overall, with addiction there is significant impairment in executive functioning which can manifest in problems with impulse control, perception, and judgement.
If the above information resonates with you or if a loved one needs assistance, you can contact your nearest mental health professional or contact the helplines below.
Helplines:
• Houghton House 24/7 Emergency Helpline - 079 770 7532
• SADAG- New WhatsApp helpline launched aimed at youth substance abuse- Ke Moja WhatsApp Chat Platform is available seven days a week, from 8am to 5pm. WhatsApp 087 163 2025 for a live chat with one of the counsellors.
• National Department of Social Development 24-hour Substance Abuse Helpline – 0800 12 13 14 or SMS 32312
For bookings with Sherlinka Naidoo contact [email protected] or
call. 0661085680 or +010 449-9755