The growth of Narcotics Anonymous
There are over 100 online meetings offered weekly in addition to face-to-face meetings happening weekly across South Africa.
June 22 to 26 is National Drug Awareness Week in South Africa.
In 2020, Narcotics Anonymous (NA) conducted an anonymous nationwide survey where 486 members responded voluntarily over four weeks.
Below are some of the key findings from the survey.
Growth of the fellowship:
• Membership has grown in the black/African and Indian/Asian communities. Membership in 2020: white members comprise 66 per cent with 18 per cent coloured, seven per cent Indian/Asian, and six per cent black/African.
• Since 2013, there has been a 5.2 per cent increase in female members; 2020 indicates 55 per cent male and 44 per cent female members.
• 87.4 per cent of respondents report having a sponsor in 2020, almost 20 per cent more than in 2013 (67.9 per cent).
• 90.4 per cent of members attend at least one meeting weekly, up from 79.9 per cent (2013).
The NA meeting is the primary outreach of the organisation. There are over 100 online meetings offered weekly in addition to face-to-face meetings happening weekly across South Africa.
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Introduction to NA:
Information campaigns, members and relationship of cooperation with existing facilities and institutions are the primary entry points for new members:
• 42 per cent of members were introduced through a treatment facility
• 22 per cent were introduced by an existing NA member
• 12 per cent were introduced by a family member
• Eight per cent through a hospital and institution meeting
Anyone who feels they have a problem with drugs (regardless of type) is welcomed at NA; all that is needed is a desire to stop using.
Membership is free, voluntary and anonymous.
NA is not affiliated with other organisations and is not accountable to any outside entities (including family, friends, employers, institutions or treatment facilities).
They welcome people of all ages, nationalities, sexual identities, cultures, and religions.
No booking is required to attend a meeting in your area.
For more information, or to be directed to a meeting, visit www.na.org.za or call the helpline on 0861 00 6962.
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