Narcotics Anonymous offers free help to addicts

June is Drug Awareness month in South Africa.

Anyone who feels they want to stop using drugs may join Narcotics Anonymous (NA), regardless of which drug was used. There are no fees or charges to joining NA or attending NA meetings.

Narcotics Anonymous started in the 1980s in South Africa and a handful of meetings. Today NA has 279 meetings running every week across South Africa.

NA has a programme that guides recovery with 12 steps and 12 traditions. These guidelines have helped millions of others across the world.

What to expect if you are new to NA?

If you’re an addict or think you might have a drug problem, NA suggests a meeting every day for at least 90 days.

The journey of recovery begins with abstinence from all drugs, including alcohol. Sometimes people come to NA meetings while still using drugs, detoxing from drugs or while on drug replacement therapy. Regardless of what you may be taking when you first come to NA, you are welcome.

About NA

Narcotics Anonymous itself is a non-religious programme of recovery. Each member, through the 12 steps, are introduced to some spiritual principles and apply these principles to everyday life.

Narcotics Anonymous is not affiliated with other organisations and does not employ professional counsellors or therapists, nor does it provide residential facilities or clinics.

The fellowship does not offer vocational, legal, financial, psychiatric or medical services. Meetings are often held in churches, treatment centres or other facilities.

Narcotics Anonymous is entirely self-supporting and does not accept financial contributions from non-members. All donations are voluntary and given by members that are able to contribute. Based on the same principle, groups and service committees are administered by NA members, for members.

NA’s primary purpose is in providing a recovery environment in their meetings, whereby drug addicts can share their recovery experiences with one another.

Should you require more information, visit www.na.org.za or call the helpline on 083 900 6962 to find the closest meeting to you.