A multifaceted issue, with diverse substances being abused
Drug addiction in South Africa is a multifaceted issue, with diverse substances being abused and a range of factors contributing to the problem. Notably, the affordability and availability of drugs have significantly increased over the years. The World Drug Report 2022 highlighted a drop in drug prices, making them more accessible. The South African Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use (SACENDU) reported that substances like ‘Tik’ (methamphetamine), cannabis, alcohol, and heroin are the primary drugs of abuse, with methamphetamine use surpassing cocaine.
Key Trends In South Africa
One of the key trends in drug addiction treatment is the focus on addressing dual diagnoses, recognizing that substance abuse often co-occurs with other mental health conditions like anxiety and mood disorders. This growing awareness of Drug addiction in South Africa has led to improved intake screenings at addiction treatment centers, aiming for better outcomes. Additionally, the impact of trauma as a contributing factor to substance abuse is being more widely acknowledged, influencing treatment approaches.
Drug Addiction in South Africa Specific Substances
In terms of specific substances, opioid abuse, particularly involving powerful synthetic opioids like fentanyl, remains a significant issue. The development of a fentanyl vaccine, currently in human clinical trials, represents a novel approach in tackling this problem. However, the vaccine, like all medication-assisted treatments (MAT), is not a one
Health and Wellness Trends
The health and wellness trends in the sphere of drug addiction in South Africa, as of 2023, present a complex picture marked by evolving strategies and persistent challenges. The primary substances of abuse reported in the Western Cape, according to the South African Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use (SACENDU) 2022 report, include ‘Tik’ (methamphetamine) at 35%, cannabis at 24%, alcohol at 18%, and heroin at 7%, comprising 84% of all admissions to treatment centers. The Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD), in collaboration with Non-Profit Organization (NPO) partners, continues to provide quality substance abuse treatment and early intervention services across the province, despite financial constraints. In the 2024/22 financial year, 9,199 individuals accessed these services.
Regarding treatment methods, the most effective treatment for Drug addiction in South Africa and opioid use disorder (OUD) includes medications such as buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone, combined with counselling and behavioural therapies.
A multifaceted approach to drug addiction in South Africa
According to Houghton House Johannesburgs premier rehab destination the current trends in health and wellness in the sphere of drug addiction in South Africa reveal a multifaceted approach, focusing on various forms of substance abuse and the integration of mental health treatment.
The latest Phase 50 report (2022) compiled by the South African Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use (SACENDU) indicates that in the Western Cape, the primary substances of use reported were ‘Tik’ (35%), cannabis (24%), alcohol (18%), and heroin (7%), comprising 84% of all admissions to 36 specialist treatment centres/programs in the first half of 2024. During the 2024/22 financial year, 9199 individuals accessed substance abuse prevention and treatment services offered by the Department of Social Development (DSD) and its Non-Profit Organisation (NPO) partners.
A Variety of methods are being implemented.
In terms of treatment approaches, a variety of methods are being implemented. Detoxification is the first phase of treatment, with medical supervision considered a hallmark of a good program. Post-detoxification, treatment includes a range of therapeutic activities such as group therapy, individual counselling, art therapy, family sessions, psychodrama, lectures on addiction and recovery, and 12-step support groups. The goal is to ensure long-lasting abstinence and general life improvement, with the measure of success being the duration of sobriety post-treatment and overall life quality in recovery.
Additionally, there is a growing awareness of Drug addiction in South Africa and the co-occurrence of substance abuse with other mental health conditions like anxiety and mood disorders. This understanding is improving intake screenings at addiction treatment centers, leading to better treatment outcomes for individuals living with addiction. Treating both conditions simultaneously yields the best long-term results.
The choice between inpatient and outpatient programs is another important consideration. Outpatient programs, suited for those who do not need as much structure, allow patients to work during the day and sleep at home while attending certain groups at the center. This contrasts with inpatient programs, where residents stay on the property. The length of rehabilitation varies depending on the substance; for example, a nine-month program is optimal for heroin addicts.
Education and awareness of Drug addiction in South Africa
These also play a critical role in prevention. There is a misconception, especially among young people, that prescription drugs are safer than other drugs. This is being addressed through education, and mental health days are being integrated into time-off policies for employees and students to focus on their mental health, acknowledging the stress factors that may lead to substance abuse.
Overall, the approach to drug addiction treatment in South Africa is evolving, incorporating a blend of medical, psychological, and educational strategies to address the complexities of addiction and its intertwined relationship with mental health.