With the country and institutions of higher learning facing continuously increasing challenges of drug abuse, which create a lot of problems in society, the Directorate of Student Development and Support (SDS) hosted an interactive Substance Abuse Awareness and Information session to inform students were informed about the dangers of substance abuse and prevention methods available to assist those that are struggling with addiction.
“We need a systematic approach to solve the problem of substance abuse in our country, which include prevention, which is why we invited guest speakers and experts in the field, including a social worker and psychologists, to talk about realities of substance abuse and addition, treatment and prevention, substance abuse and mental health and what happens in rehabilitation centres,” said Director of SDS, Dr Shafeeka Dockrat in her welcome.
Thabiso Mashabane, a Social Worker at SANCA (Soshanguve) painted and eye-opening picture on the realities of drugs, saying drug disorders can be compared to cravings for food. “These are instances where an individual relies on substances that alter their body functioning. A drug is any substance which, when taken, affects the body, both psychologically and physically,” she said.
“From one’s first connection with drugs, the desire gradually grows and you could end up getting addicted to even stronger substances as your body builds tolerance and you become addicted, to a point where the signs are there for everybody to see,” she added.
Talking about treatment, Psychologists Berno Paul and Amo Maake, both from Stabilis Treatment Centre, emphasized that treatment must be a voluntary decision where one is not forced to seek help.
Psychologist Amo Maake speaking about the
importance of treatment during the Substance Abuse Awareness and Information session.
“Families who are living with addicted people, need to motivate them to go for treatment and not force them into rehabilitation centres. Often those that are forced to seek treatment, lacks commitment and motivation and do not complete the treatment,” said Berno.
Liezle Hartman, CEO of Stabilis Treatment Centre, shared information to demystify treatment programmes as well as what Rehabilitation Centres do to assist people with severe addiction through therapy, psychotherapy and medical interventions.
At the end of the event, two recovering addicts who received treatment at SANCA, also shared their testimonies on how seeking treatment has helped them to turn around their lives and helped them to become responsible citizens. The audience, throughout the campaign, were entertained with short theatrical performances, related to the topics on substance abuse, conducted by students from the Department of Performing Arts.