While the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, SANCA, Drug Awareness Week (June 22-27) shines a spotlight on substance abuse and recovery, health experts are encouraging South Africans to view addiction as a medical condition rather than a personal failing.

According to Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health, addiction is now widely recognised as a disease that affects the brain and requires professional treatment and support.

“Addiction is now recognised as an illness that affects the brain. Society used to consider it as a personal choice,” said Hewlett.

Health experts recognise substance use disorders as medical conditions that are closely linked to mental health. As drug use continues, changes in the brain can make it increasingly difficult for a person to stop using substances without assistance.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) describes substance use disorder as a chronic but treatable condition that affects brain function and behaviour. The organisation notes that treatment and long-term support can help people regain control of their lives.

Stigma remains one of the biggest barriers

One of the greatest challenges facing people with addiction is the stigma often associated with substance abuse.

People struggling with addiction are frequently met with judgment, shame and misunderstanding, making it more difficult for them to seek help. Many fear being labelled or treated differently and therefore suffer in silence.

NIDA has identified stigma as a significant barrier to treatment, warning that negative attitudes towards addiction can prevent people from accessing the support they need.

“When people feel supported rather than judged, they are far more likely to seek help and begin the recovery process,” health professionals say.

Addiction affects both body and mind

Addiction can have serious consequences for both physical and mental health.

Depending on the substance used, the effects may include damage to organs such as the heart and liver, respiratory problems, weakened immune function, anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions.

Long-term substance use can also impair memory, concentration and decision-making, while increasing the risk of overdose and other life-threatening complications.

Hewlett said understanding the medical nature of addiction is critical to helping people recover.

“Recognising addiction as a health condition allows individuals to seek treatment without fear of judgement and improves their chances of recovery,” he said.

Recovery is possible

Experts stress that recovery is not a quick fix but an ongoing process that often requires medical care, counselling, behavioural therapies and support from family and friends.

Relapse can occur during recovery, but healthcare professionals emphasise that it should not be viewed as failure. Instead, it is often part of the journey towards long-term recovery.

Research continues to show that people can achieve lasting recovery when they have access to appropriate treatment and support systems.

Recognising the warning signs

Although addiction affects people differently, several warning signs should not be ignored.

These may include sudden mood swings, behavioural changes, withdrawal from family and friends, increased secrecy, changes in sleeping patterns, poor performance at work or school and unexplained health problems.

While these signs do not automatically indicate substance abuse, experts advise that persistent changes should prompt concern and conversation.

A calm, supportive discussion without judgment can often be the first step in helping someone access assistance.

Building supportive communities

Experts believe communities have an important role to play in helping people overcome addiction.

This starts with speaking openly about mental health, showing empathy and avoiding language that blames or shames individuals living with substance use disorders.

The support offered by family members, friends, workplaces and communities can often determine whether a person feels safe enough to seek treatment.

Where to get help

People seeking assistance for substance abuse can contact the Department of Social Development Substance Abuse Line, which offers free, confidential support 24 hours a day.

24-hour helpline: 0800 12 13 14
SMS service: 32312

The service provides support, information, counselling referrals and guidance for individuals and families affected by substance abuse.

For more information, visit SADAG.

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