GEORGE NEWS - The South African National Council on Alcoholism (Sanca) week this year coincides with the International Day against Drug Abuse and Trafficking which will be celebrated from 25 to 29 June.
To help raise awareness of the complexities related to abuse and dependence, Sanca is asking everyone to give up one "habit" during this time.
Denise de Beer from Sanca says the campaign seeks to build awareness through experience, "by challenging individuals within our communities and country to stop using one 'habit' for a week." This experience, albeit brief, should give people an idea of what a substance dependant might go through in treatment. "With experience comes education and this is the ultimate aim of the campaign."
She says whether the 'habit' people give up is caffeine, tobacco, chocolate, Facebook or even shopping, is entirely up to the individual's discretion; however, it is important to consider your choice and select something that you use or do on a regular basis.
De Beer says though the problem of substance abuse within the country is endemic, many South Africans know very little about the problem and how it might be affecting them personally. "Many people are unaware of the difficulties faced by substance dependants when first entering treatment and the long-term fight that will be faced over the years after treatment."
She says many believe that the substance user has a choice every time they use, which has led to the idea that active addiction is fuelled by the irrational and selfish behaviours of the individuals themselves. However, she stresses, addiction is far more complex than this.
The drive to continue using is more often fuelled by the psychological and physical needs of the dependant, she explains, and more often than not it is very difficult and complex to stop.
According to De Beer, Sanca George will be creating awareness at various clinics and businesses through information sessions and the distribution of pamphlets and posters in the communities.
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