Drug Addiction Treatment Centers in South Africa

Most people are unable and/or unwilling to admit that they are addicted to drugs. It often falls to friends and family to intervene and motivate the addict to get treatment. Every drug addiction is unique in its own way. However, there are some common signs and symptoms which include:

• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Anxiety and depression
• Borrowing or stealing money
• Poor performance at school or work
• Long unexplained absences
• Anger and violence
• Irrational behavior

Physical appearance may change dramatically such as tooth decay, weight loss/gain, and hair loss and skin problems

What is the aim of drug addiction treatment?

• To stop using drugs
• To stay drug-free
• To be productive in the society

The first step in treating any addiction is the addict accepting that they have a problem and that the addiction is causing a negative impact in their life.

The most effective way of treating drug addiction is through comprehensive drug rehabilitation programs. Although the rehabilitation centers are numerous some core principles always remain the same. These consist of detoxification, counseling and lastly aftercare.

• Detoxification: This is aimed at helping the addict overcome the effects of the drug on their physical body by allowing the body to be cleansed of the drug toxins. The doctor assesses the addict to evaluate their condition and determine if they require medically assisted detoxification. Medically assisted detoxification uses medications to manage the withdrawal symptoms. This makes the process less painful as well as allowing the body to be progressively weaned off the abused drugs.
• Counseling: This aims at giving the addict a chance at exploring the root cause of their problem. It helps them understand the triggers that led to the drug addiction. Counseling can be done on an individual basis or in a group. Once the reasons and triggers are understood the addict can then learn to manage them.
• Behavior modification: Behavioral modification therapies assist patients in modifying their behavior and attitude which is related to their drug use. It also helps the addict increase healthy life skills and continues with other forms of treatment.
• Aftercare: Aftercare programs aim at helping the addict make a smooth re-entry back into life after treatment or going through a rehabilitation program. Aftercare can include placement into a sober living facility, meetings with behavioral health counselors and other outpatient services.

Drug addiction treatment can be achieved with medications that help manage withdrawal symptoms, prevent relapse and treat other co-occurring conditions.

• Withdrawal: During the detoxification process, medications help suppress the withdrawal symptoms. The detoxification process is not treatment but a step in the treatment plan. You should not discontinue treatment after detoxification.
• Relapse prevention: Medications can be used to decrease cravings and re-establish the normal brain function.
• Co-occurring conditions: Other medications are used to treat other conditions that may be contributing to the person’s addiction such as anxiety, depression or mental health problems.