Issued by: South African Depression and Anxiety Group


Substance abuse is a huge problem across South Africa, both in the youth and older population groups. According to SACENDU research done between January and June 2007, in KwaZulu Natal there was a 7% increase in the use of heroin in a six-month period and 52% of under 20's use dagga, 22% use heroin and Sugarz. In Gauteng, 61% of patients under 20 use dagga, in Mpumalanga the figure is 69%. In Cape Town, 28% of patients were aged between 10 and 19. Perhaps most frightening is the Northern Cape where children younger than 10 account for 4% of the patients in treatment for substance abuse.

“I have a problem. I am 18 and a dagga addict. I've been smoking for five years. I can't stop - I've tried so many times to quit and failed every time. Please help me get my life back.”
There is a severe shortage of health services generally in South Africa and facilities that serve to rehabilitate substance abuse addicts are few and very costly. Now, thanks to The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) and the Department of Social Development, people across South Africa desperate for help have a place to be listened to and supported - somewhere they can call or SMS to get help.

The toll-free Substance Abuse Help Line (0800 12 13 14) provides 24 hour help, seven days a week to people who often are at their wits end and don't know what to do next or where to turn. Our highly trained, dedicated and empathetic counsellors are able to provide hope and support - and intervene in a crisis.

“I am addicted to crack cocaine, its getting worse every day. I keep thinking that suicide is my only option. Please help me!”
SADAG aims to heighten the awareness of drug and alcohol abuse problems in South Africa. “We want to educate the public on the severity of the problem and consequences of substance abuse. It's vital to establish substance abuse prevention programmes at school level as substance abuse is a rapidly growing problem among South African youth,” says Janine Shamos, Project Director. The line aims to make help, advice and support readily available, and send out information that is appropriate, accessible and reliable. The line can be reached on 0800 12 13 14 or SMS 32312, seven days a week.

Substance abuse is a cry for help. SADAG is here to answer that cry.

“You helped save my son's life. God Bless you in your wonderful work.”

Visit our PRESS OFFICE: SADAG is committed to quality counselling, outreach programmes and capacity building work throughout South Africa, and this commitment to promoting mental health across South Africa.- more....

[6 Aug 2008 11:49]

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