There is always hope for addicts
Elim Clinic is a very special place and the fact that the clinic has been here for the past 56 years, says something about the experience and professionalism of the staff
ELIM Clinic Professional Rehabilitation Centre in Spartan hosted its annual open day on March 25.
They invited the public to come and see what really happens in a rehabilitation centre, Sorika de Swardt, addiction consultant at Elim Clinic, said.
“There are so many misconceptions about rehabilitation facilities which might deter those who suffer from addiction to seek help.”
Members of the public and professionals attended the day and were given presentations by different professionals on the treatment of addiction.
Sr Irene Moeng, nursing services manager, explained the medical treatment patients underwent at Elim Clinic.
“Addiction is a disease and therefore medication forms an important part of the overall treatment. Detoxification is not this intrusive scary treatment where people have to go ‘cold turkey’. At Elim Clinic we offer medication to assist with the discomfort and pain addicts experience when they start to withdraw from their drug of choice.
“All of this is done under close supervision and care of qualified medical staff. We have general practitioners who see patients every day in the clinic and even have a visiting psychiatrist once a week for those who suffer from dual diagnosis.
“People should be careful to try and detox themselves at home without any medical assistance and supervision as this might be dangerous to their health and can even be life threatening,” said De Swardt.
De Swart said medication alone would not resolve the underlying reasons that cause someone to use drugs or misuse alcohol and medication, therefore Elim Clinic has a very well researched treatment programme in addition to the medical treatment programme.
Susan van Niekerk, clinical manager, said every patient had their own qualified therapist, a social worker or psychologist, as well as a pastoral councillor for individual sessions.
There are also many group activities like life skills training, medical lectures, psycho-educational sessions and a range of art and leisure activities to give the addict the opportunity to learn to enjoy the healthy things in life.
“Elim Clinic is a very special place and the fact that the clinic has been here for the past 56 years, says something about the experience and professionalism of the staff,” Elize Smith, the managing director, said.
Imeldah Mdluli said anyone could refer themselves to the clinic by calling 011-975-2951
011-975-2951.
“We are contracted with all medical aid schemes and private paying patients are also welcome. There is always hope for addicts and their loved ones.”
