SANCA challenges you: Ready to kick your habit this June?

Do you have what it takes to stop doing something you love for a week — or will your willpower crumble?

From June 23 to 29, the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA) invites you to test your resolve during its annual Kick Your Habit campaign.

Adél Grobbelaar, head of the SANCA Wedge Gardens Treatment Centre in Johannesburg, explains that the campaign aims to raise awareness of the daily struggles faced by individuals living with substance use disorders.

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“Many people believe overcoming addiction is just a matter of willpower,” said Grobbelaar, a veteran in addiction treatment with over 40 years of experience.

“But addiction is a chronic brain disease — not a personal failing. The brain’s chemistry is altered, and stopping substance use requires far more than simply choosing to quit.”

Understanding addiction, one habit at a time

Kick Your Habit encourages individuals to give up a personal comfort or routine — whether it’s your daily coffee, chocolate fix, cigarettes, endless social media scrolling, after-work drinks, or even biting your nails.

By giving up a small crutch for just seven days, participants gain insight into the challenges faced by people in treatment for substance use disorders.

“You might know your habit isn’t good for you, but you rely on it because it brings comfort, relief or pleasure,” Grobbelaar said.

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“Just like alcohol, codeine or illegal drugs, even everyday habits activate the brain’s reward centre and keep you hooked.”

She adds that even seemingly harmless items — like sugar or fizzy drinks — can lead to mild forms of substance use disorder when misused over time.

Addiction Goes Beyond Substances

Many harmful addictions aren’t linked to substances at all. Grobbelaar explains that behavioural addictions can be just as destructive, including:
• Bulimia and disordered eating
• Compulsive exercise
• Gambling
• Unsafe sexual behaviour
• Overspending
• Excessive pornography use
• Problematic gaming
• Uncontrolled internet use

“The campaign helps people appreciate the mental and emotional challenge of giving up something they rely on,” said Grobbelaar. “It helps simulate what individuals in rehab face and fosters empathy.”

A week that builds compassion

“By taking this challenge, people not only learn about their own behaviour but also experience the psychological impact of deprivation,” she said.

“They may turn to others for support, just as those in treatment do. It’s this connection that helps bridge the gap between stigma and understanding.”

She emphasised the vital role society plays in supporting recovery: from encouraging people to seek help, to providing compassion during the difficult detox and reintegration process, and addressing the root causes of substance use disorders.

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What will you give up?

Whether you’re a student, parent, office worker or retiree, SANCA Wedge Gardens invites you to take on the Kick Your Habit challenge.

Choose one habit, big or small, and go without it for a week. Share your journey with friends, family, or on social media using the SANCA National Facebook or Twitter platforms.

“You might be surprised by what you learn about yourself — and even more surprised by how this experience helps you understand others,” said Grobbelaar.

The SANCA Wedge Gardens team will be giving up coffee and is encouraging local businesses, schools, organisations and individuals to participate.

Are you ready to kick your habit?