Drugs and substances - the fine line between improving or ruining a life

Substance abuse in South Africa increased dramatically since the start of the pandemic. Lockdown, school closures and income losses have amplified problems that already existed in our society. The reasons for substance abuse sound so harmless and understandable:

• To achieve a feeling of pleasure, to have a good time
• To relieve pain, stress and pressure or to escape problems
• To achieve more by increasing performance or improving thinking
• Peer pressure or just simply curiosity.

Yet the repercussions of substance abuse can be monumental. Substance abuse isn't as simple as someone using drugs or illegal substances. It can start as innocuously as regularly having a drink to relax, or continuing to take painkillers "just in case" even when your pain is gone. We talk about substance abuse when someone uses prescription or illegal drugs excessively, or for other than the intended purpose, which often leads to physical, social or emotional harm.

Substances that alter a person's mood are known to lead to abuse, for example prescription painkillers that contain opioids like codeine or morphine. In the early stages, it can be difficult to see the difference between someone who takes painkillers because they need them and someone who is abusing them. The abuse of alcohol and narcotic addiction are some of the leading causes of preventable illnesses and premature death. Cardiovascular disease, stroke, cancer, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, and lung disease can all be affected by substance abuse.

Some of these effects are due to high doses of the substance or prolonged use, however, some may occur after once-off use only.

Recognising unhealthy drug use

Symptoms of substance abuse are not always easy to recognise, and one often first blames other factors for a certain behaviour.

• Problems at school or work: a sudden disinterest in school or work; drop in performance; unexplained absenteeism
• Physical health issues: lack of energy and motivation; weight loss or gain; changes in sleep habits
• Neglected appearance: lack of interest in clothing; grooming or looks
• Changes in behaviour: avoiding friends of family members; being closed up and secretive about his/her activities and whereabouts; mood swings; erratic behaviour
• Money issues: asking for money without wanting to explain the sudden shortfall or what it is needed for; money or items are going 'missing', indicating that they might have been sold to support drug use.

Free professional advice

If you are worried about yourself, a family member or a friend, call the South African Depression and Anxiety Group's substance abuse helpline on 0800 12 13 14 or SMS 32312.

Funding for treatment

The Scheme funds alcohol and drug treatment in hospital, admission and medication, up to a limit of 21 days subject to Prescribed Minimum Benefits at Prime Cure network providers if you are on the Value Care Plan, or at SANCA (South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence) and SANCA-approved facilities if you are on the Standard Care Plan or Managed Care Plan. Consultations and medication upon discharge will be subject to out of hospital benefits and limits, or your available funds in your medical savings account, depending on your plan.

Published: August 2022.