Identifying Addiction

What To Look For And Where To Go For Help Addiction comes in many shapes and sizes, but in South Africa, it manifests most often in drug and alcohol abuse. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) lists alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, tik and heroin as the substances most often used, and which account for the vast majority of our addicts. Unlike many other countries, South Africa doesn’t have regular representative surveys into substance abuse, so it’s really difficult to gauge just how extensive the problem is. The only stats readily available concern those addicts admitted to facilities for treatment. These show us that there was a worrying increase in admitted addicts between 2016 and 2017 (the most recent figures available) – from 8 787 to 10 047.

So why do we have such a problem with substance abuse in our country? What is it that drives people to addiction?

www.kaelo.co.za the same way that diabetes damages our pancreas, Identifying How People and cardiovascular disease damages our heart, addiction The Signs Of Become damages the brain, hijacking the way in which we recognise Addiction Addicts pleasure, and promoting Although many addicts – at compulsive behaviour. least in the early stages of Addiction actually alters the their addition – try their best brain, and it does this in two Although no one is immune from to conceal the signs and distinct ways. Firstly, it subverts the scourge of addiction, there symptoms of their addiction, the way our brain registers are definitely certain people there are tell-tale symptoms to pleasure, and secondly, it more at risk of developing an look out for. corrupts other normal drives, addiction disorder than others. such as motivation and Experts cite factors such as Physical signs include: learning. As the addiction mental health issues, family continues, it exerts a deeper background, work stress, • Unexplained weight loss or gain and more insidious power genetics, relationship problems • Uncharacteristic skin outbreaks over our brains. Depite the and financial difficulties or change in skin colour fact that continuing to use as being common triggers. • General overall deterioration in the addictive substance has Addictive substances can be appearance adverse consequences, an used a coping mechanisms • Unusual and/or offensive smells addict’s brain will still crave the to help vulnerable individuals on the breath, body or clothes substance to the point where deal with these issues. In they surrender all control over younger people, boredom, • Slurred speech, shaking hands its use. and feeling as though you or other tremors, and impaired have no sense of purpose – are co-ordination Nobody starts out intending often gateways to addiction, • Bloodshot eyes and abnormally to develop an addiction, as are anxiety, depression and large pupils but millions do every year. feeling out of control of your Researchers first started life. Behavioural signs include: investigating the causes of addiction as far back at the • Feelings of anxiety, depression, 1930s. Initially, they believed paranoia or isolation addicts were morally flawed in • Risky behaviour – including some deep and fundamental stealing, lying and selling drugs way. They thought curing • Drop in performance at the addiction was simply a case office, school or university of punishing addicts until they • Secret or suspicious behaviour developed the will to break their destructive habit. • Uncharacteristic mood swings and angry outbursts Today, we know better, • Changes in personality recognising addiction as a • Changes in sleeping or eating chronic disease that changes patterns not only the brain’s functioning • Unusual agitation or hyperactivity but also its actual structure. In • Behaving in a fearful manner

www.kaelo.co.za What Can You Do If You Suspect Someone Is Battling Addiction? The most important thing if you believe a friend or family member has an addiction problem is to encourage them to seek professional help, and not to try and be that professional yourself. Remember that substance abuse is an illness, and one that is extremely difficult to cure. Be supportive and encouraging, but be aware of potentially manipulative behaviour and being tricked into being an unwitting enabler.

There are many outpatient programmes available in South Africa from organisations such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependences (SANCA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA). There are also numerous addiction clinics throughout the country offering both short- (21-30 days) and long-term (90 days to a year) programmes.

Even with the best treatment and support, the recovery process is life-long and relapses are sadly very common. Ongoing therapy after the initial treatment programme is complete is essential, as is membership of support groups. Having a “sober companion” or “accountability partner” is also incredibly helpful.

At Kaelo, we understand that addiction is an illness, and one that needs sensitive, compassionate, but firm treatment. This is why we offer employees the support and protection they not only need, but deserve through our Lifestyle Programme. It’s an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), but also so much more, including a systematic programme of counselling, financial, legal and leadership support. Ultimately we’re committed to identifying, preventing and treating issues that might affect the productivity of people.

Find out more here.