Addressing stigma and shame about addiction is essential to creating a supportive environment for those seeking help. Providing accurate information and fostering open conversations about recovery can aid in challenging stereotypes about addiction and addicts.
This is according to Marietjie Landsberg, the director at Aurora Alcohol and Drug Centre in Bloemfontein, who spoke to the publication about the importance of sharing correct information on addiction.
She highlighted that as September is dedicated to Addiction Awareness, it is crucial to address the pressing issue of substance use disorders and reduce the stigma surrounding addiction. “By promoting understanding and compassion, SANCA and other organisations working in the field seeks to create a more supportive environment for individuals and families affected by addiction. It emphasises that addiction is a disease, not a moral failing, and highlights the possibility of recovery and the importance of ongoing resources,” she explained.
Landsberg further stated that Addiction Awareness Month serves as an opportunity to recognise individuals in recovery from addiction. “It highlights the importance of ongoing support, resources, and treatment to help maintain sobriety and mental wellness. The month-long observance emphasises that recovery is possible and that individuals in recovery deserve respect and encouragement,” she said.
There are several misconceptions that can be tied to addiction, she highlighted one: “Addiction is a choice or a moral problem – all you have to do is stop.”
“Much of the argument that addiction is a choice, stems from misconceptions about the types of people who suffer from addiction. This is tied to the stigma of addiction, which developed as a result of the individuals who were affected by addiction, such as people from specific social classes or ethnicities. The brain actually changes with addiction, and it takes a good deal of work to get it back to its normal state. The more drugs or alcohol you’ve taken, the more disruptive it is to the brain,” she said.
Landsberg added that when you’re becoming addicted to a substance, that normal hardwiring of your brain processes can begin to work against you. “Drugs or alcohol can hijack the pleasure/reward circuits in your brain and hook you into wanting more and more… The fact is that addiction is a chronic brain disease and most people will need professional help/ intervention to move towards recovery and live a sober healthy fulfilling life,” she concluded.
Visit www.bloemfonteincourant.co.za during this month for more articles on Addiction Awareness with the assistance from SANCA Aurora.
If you or someone you know would like to reach out to SANCA for assistance contact 051-447-4111 for more information.
Gypseenia Lion
