Drugs and alcohol abuse are a virus that has been spreading in South Africa for a long time. It’s a growing problem in our society, and alcohol and drug addiction has become a tough nut to crack, so to speak. Drugs and alcohol make people feel good. When they are able to feel those feelings, they are apt to use more just to maintain that feeling. Eventually, the drugs and/or alcohol take hold of a person’s life until they are completely controlled by the effects they are used to. They may realize they have a problem, but when the painful withdrawal symptoms start, using seems like a much better option than suffering. South Africa has declared a “war on drugs”. This is a great effort, but it might just be too big of an epidemic to control. The real truth is that if we take a personal interest in healing those around us, we can gain control of the problem one person at a time – if we’re lucky. Recognizing the signs of alcohol and drug addiction are actually quite easy – when you know what you’re looking for. While the following signs are just suggestions to look for, don’t take them lightly: Chronic bloodshot eyes Behavior other than normal Always disappearing for long periods of time Problems with work or school Excessive shaking or tremors Financial problems Avoidance of social situations Spacey or unintelligible conversation If you recognize any of these signs in a loved one, you should take steps to confront your loved one and try to steer them towards recovery efforts. The process is not simple, but when you take the time to help them realize that what they are doing is damaging not only themselves but those around them, they will possibly be more open to help. Alcohol and drug addiction can be debilitating to families all over the world. It takes hold of lives and can ruin them in an instant. Drug and alcohol addiction are very serious diseases that should not be ignored. If you think you or a loved one might be struggling with this powerful problem, seek help now! There are more resources available now than ever before when it comes to drug and alcohol addiction. Whether you seek out help from an in-patient rehab facility or through a counseling service, it’s imperative that help be gotten in any way. Drug and alcohol addiction can be conquered, but first, there needs to be an admission that a problem exists. That doesn’t mean weakness, that actually means strength! At Clearview Clinic, we follow a holistic in-patient rehabilitation program for individuals struggling with drug addiction. Call today on +27 12 819 1422 or +27 61 424 1939 (24/7) or email us, for an assessment. Its better now than later!
Addiction is a condition which involves doing things that can be pleasurable persistently or repetitively despite their consequences. Continued use or an act of compulsive behaviour can interfere with ordinary responsibilities such as work responsibilities, family, health and relationships. Sometimes people get addicted just after a few times of exposure or act. Something to think about is how your drug use makes you feel. Do you only do drugs when you are with your friends or has your use of drugs become a habit? Ask yourselves the following questions: Are you fearful of what might happen after you stop using? Have you ever felt you needed to cut down on your drinking or drug use? Do you spend most of your times thinking about how or when you going to use drugs or drink alcohol? Have you ever felt you needed a drink first thing in the morning (Eye-opener) to steady your nerves or to get rid of a hangover? Do you use drugs to escape negative feelings? Have you ever been in trouble with the law as a result of your use of drugs or alcohol? Are you uncomfortable about your drug or alcohol use? Have you ever experienced withdrawal symptoms (felt sick) when you stopped taking drugs or stopped drinking? Do you have blackouts or can’t remember what happened after consuming alcohol or drugs? Do you steal from loved ones to buy drugs or alcohol? Have you had medical problems as a result of your drug use (e.g., memory loss, hepatitis, convulsions, bleeding etc…)? Do you spend large amounts of money on drugs or alcohol? If you answered yes to most of the questions, then you are likely to have drug/alcohol addiction problems. Drugs and alcohol change how the body works. For other people drugs serve as a way to escape reality, life problems, and relief from stress, depression or other uncomfortable feelings. Cravings may also indicate Addiction. When you get addicted, the addiction develops strong and powerful mental cravings when the drug/ alcohol is not in your system. According to Leshner A (Addiction is a brain disease, and it matters.) Science (1997) “Addiction generates changes in the reward pathway of the brain, which creates compulsive need to find and use drugs.” This makes it difficult to quit using or taking drugs once your habit has developed to addiction. Addiction is scary and it may lead to thinking that there is no hope of recovering. The truth is that recovery from addiction is possible. It can be managed with treatment in an inpatient rehabilitation, counselling and outpatient treatment centre depending on the level of addiction. Support and positive attitudes also play a significant role in the recovery process. If you are actually an addict or headed the direction of addiction, seek professional help.