Marietjie Landsberg from the Aurora Alcohol and Drug Centre in Bloemfontein, who has 16 years of specialised experience in the field of substance abuse prevention and treatment, told Bloemfontein Courant that there is not one single approach to address addiction.
“The latest research indicated that a multi-pronged approach needs to be followed. Focus on only one component of the problems and challenges alcohol abuse entails will not make any difference,” she expressed.
Landsberg further highlighted that this approach can address harm reduction, supply reduction, and demand reduction. This could be by means of limiting the direct and indirect harm caused by alcohol and drugs by means of treatment, needle exchange programmes in addition to limiting the availability of alcohol and drugs, and lastly limiting the demand for drugs by means of awareness and prevention.
“It is important to understand that alcohol and drug abuse is a chronic disease. There is no cure for this disease, but it can be managed. Users should be encouraged to make use of the treatment that is available,” said Landsberg.
The following aspects are addressed in the multi-pronged approach (as provided by Landsberg)
- Demand Reduction
Raising awareness of the danger of alcohol and drug abuse and the long lasting effects it has on a person and community can contribute to the reduction of the stigma of substance use disorders and how it should be managed. (Example of raising awareness is the SANCA Kick your Habit Campaign)
- Supply Reduction
By limiting the availability of alcohol, it can lead to the prevention of abuse. This can be done by law enforcement and strict distribution control. Restricting trading hours for liquor stores and other outlets that sell alcohol are examples that can be implemented in this regard.
- Harm Reduction
If treatment for substance abuse is readily available, it can assist people to manage and address alcohol and drug abuse before it becomes uncontrollable. There are also other programmes to assist substance users in addressing their addiction, some of which are controversial, for example, needle exchange programmes to prevent the spread of HIV/Aids and providing safe spaces where drugs can be used in a controlled manner.
If you or someone you know would like to reach out to SANCA for assistance, contact 051-447-4111 for more information.
Compiled by Gypseenia Lion
