Lifestyle - Addiction Archives

The Financial and Emotional Toll of Addiction

While the focus of addiction often falls on the individual battling substance abuse, the devastating financial and emotional damage it inflicts on families, children, and even the wider economy is immense and often overlooked. It’s a crisis that touches many lives, particularly here in South Africa, where it’s estimated that up to 20% of the population struggles with addiction to substances, including alcohol.

“There’s not one person that is not affected, and that’s why we call it a family disease because unfortunately, with addiction and the path of addiction, it changes everybody’s behaviours to allow the addiction to survive within that context,” explains Kate Saxton, a psychologist in private practice and the group practice director and counselling psychologist at Changes Addiction Rehab in Johannesburg*.

The financial impact

Beyond the obvious expenses of purchasing substances, the financial toll of addiction often erodes family stability.

According to Saxton, this includes “increased debt, loss of jobs, loss of income, and even depriving children and families of their ability to survive.” She further points out the financial strain of “addicts stealing from their own families, bailing them out of jail, and the significant costs of supporting them through rehab.”

The emotional burden

The emotional burden of addiction is equally, if not more, profound.

“What happens within the family is people take on different roles and they begin to enable the behaviour of the addicts… the whole focus is on the addict, and all resources are devoted to that addict,” Saxton notes.

Children in addicted households often bear the brunt of this emotional neglect, experiencing trauma, instability, and an increased risk of developing addiction themselves. Spouses grapple with loneliness and resentment, while parents wrestle with guilt and a desperate desire to fix their child. As Saxton points out, families often isolate themselves, further compounding the emotional strain: “The more isolated you stay, the more you’re buying into the lie that it’s not too bad, because you’re not confronting the reality of the consequence it’s presenting to you until it’s almost too late.”

The instinct to help a loved one in distress is deeply ingrained. However, this compassion can inadvertently fuel the addiction.

“It goes against everything innate within us in terms of our parenting styles. Our parenting styles are to help them, to protect them, to keep them safe,” Saxton points out.

Love and concern, guilt and shame, the unwavering hope for recovery, and the paralysing fear of loss all contribute to this cycle.

“As long as you are perpetuating that, you are enabling the addiction. The biggest fear is that addiction is life-threatening. So, by thinking that you’re saving them… the reality is you are not protecting them from that. You are enhancing the chances of them dying due to their addiction,” Saxton warns.

Breaking free

While the path is challenging, families are not powerless. Establishing and maintaining firm boundaries, both financial and emotional, are crucial for their wellbeing and can ultimately create an environment that encourages recovery. Saxton offers practical advice, emphasising that boundaries must be “clear, communicated well, manageable and achievable,” and consistently maintained.

Seek support: “Consult with a therapist, support group, or counsellor to understand addiction and develop a plan for setting boundaries.” Don’t navigate this alone. Professionals and support networks offer invaluable guidance and understanding. Saxton specifically advises loved ones to “understand and work with somebody who is an addiction professional on learning how to set those boundaries effectively.”
Understand enabling behaviour: “Recognise how your actions may be enabling the addict’s behaviour and take steps to change them.” Honest self-reflection is the first step towards breaking the cycle. A key aspect of this, according to Saxton, is to “stop rescuing them, stop trying to do recovery for them. Do your own recovery.”
Clearly communicate boundaries: “Specify what behaviours are and aren’t acceptable, and the consequences for crossing those boundaries.” Be clear, direct, and avoid ambiguity.
Set specific consequences: “Establish clear consequences for when boundaries are not respected and be prepared to enforce them.” Empty threats are counterproductive.
Prioritise self-care: “Focus on your own physical, emotional, and financial well-being.” You cannot effectively help someone else if you are depleted.
Avoid rescuing or enabling: “Refrain from providing financial or emotional support that may enable the addict’s behaviour.” Saxton strongly cautions against “mopping up after them as it sustains the addiction.” She stresses that families sabotage recovery when they, for example, “pay the debt of an addict to get them back on track instead of allowing the individual to face and experience the consequences.”
Utilise available resources: For those who cannot afford private therapy, Saxton emphasises the value of support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous or Al-Anon that offer help and support to both recovering addicts and their families. She also encourages families to “read up about addiction and use platforms like the online addiction family support group Changes Rehab whose support groups are offered on Thursday evenings.

“For families and individuals grappling with addiction, know that recovery is possible. Don’t lose hope. Actively seek support from professionals, organisations, and fellow travellers on this journey. Empower yourselves with knowledge and the resources needed to navigate the path towards healing and lasting recovery,” Saxton concludes.

If you need help with addiction in your family, don’t hesitate to reach out to LifeAssist.

zara2025-05-30T06:41:30+00:00

Don’t be fooled: All forms of smoking can kill

Smoking is a gamble with your life, regardless of the device you use. There are no safe alternatives, whether it is vaping or smoking a hookah…they all have unique health risks that could shorten your life expectancy significantly.

Whether you are smoking a traditional cigarette or using one of the thought-to-be “safer” alternatives like vaping or a hookah pipe, you are putting your health at serious risk and increasing your chances of premature death. This is the undeniable truth that many fail to grasp, explains Ingrid Bame, Project Coordinator at the National Council Against Smoking (NCAS).

Concerning trends

Bame notes that there has been a worrisome increase in smoking in South Africa in recent years.

“The first Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) in South Africa was conducted by the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) in 2021 which indicated the prevalence among adults aged 15 and older was sitting at 29,4%. This is partly attributed to the rising popularity of new products like vapes and hookahs among younger people.”

A University of Cape Town study involving 25,000 high school learners revealed that 16.8% are current e-cigarette smokers, while only 2% smoke traditional cigarettes. “This clearly shows a high uptake of smoking, specifically with vapes and e-cigarettes, which are heavily marketed and come in appealing flavours, making them attractive to the youth,” Bame elaborates.

Proposed bill offers a ray of hope

The proposed Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill offers a crucial framework to address this growing problem. Apart from banning smoking in all indoor and outdoor areas and introducing plain packaging with pictorial health warnings on all tobacco products, it will impose strict regulations on the marketing and sale of e-cigarettes for the first time.

Debunking the “safer” myth

The NCAS firmly rejects the notion that vaping and hookah are safe alternatives to traditional cigarettes. “When these new products entered the market, they were often misportrayed as less harmful and even as cessation tools,” Bame clarifies. “However, the marketing strategies, particularly the appealing flavours and sleek packaging, are clearly designed to attract a younger audience. The tobacco industry uses social media influencers and digital media creators to associate these products with a certain lifestyle and social status, luring in a new generation of smokers who become addicted due to the high nicotine levels and other harmful chemicals.”

The vaping fallacy

Despite the perception of being safer, vaping carries its own set of significant health risks.

“Vapes often have variable and sometimes very high nicotine levels, making them highly addictive, especially for young people whose brains are still developing. This can also lead to mental health challenges like depression and anxiety,” Bame says.

She also highlights respiratory issues: “Vaping is linked to lung infections and other respiratory problems. A particularly concerning condition is ‘popcorn lung’ (bronchiolitis obliterans), a serious and irreversible lung disease caused by chemicals like diacetyl found in some vape flavourings.” While specific data on the development timeline of popcorn lung is unavailable, the potential for such severe and irreversible damage underscores the dangers of vaping.

The misconception that vaping is not addictive is dangerously false. “Vaping products contain nicotine, the same highly addictive substance found in traditional cigarettes,” Bame stresses. “In some cases, vapes can even have higher nicotine concentrations, leading to quicker and stronger addiction.”

Nicotine affects the brain’s reward system, creating a dependency. When someone tries to quit, they experience withdrawal symptoms like irritability, anxiety, and intense cravings. This makes it very difficult to break the cycle of addiction, regardless of whether it’s through traditional cigarettes or vapes.

The developing brains and bodies of children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to the harms of vaping. “Nicotine exposure during these critical years can have long-lasting negative consequences on brain development, affecting attention, learning, mood, and impulse control,” warns Bame. “It can also increase the risk of future addiction to other substances.”

Furthermore, the aerosol from vapes contains harmful chemicals and tiny particles that can damage young lungs. The long-term effects are still being studied, but early evidence suggests increased risks of respiratory illnesses and potential cardiovascular problems.

Life years lost

Research has consistently shown the devastating impact of smoking on life expectancy. “On average, smokers lose about 10 to 11 years of life compared to non-smokers,” Bame states. “More specifically, each cigarette smoked is estimated to cut off around 11 minutes of life.”

While quitting at any point offers benefits, the sooner someone stops, the better their chances of recovering some lost years and improving their overall quality of life.

Hookah harms

The social aspect of hookah smoking often masks its significant health risks. “Hookah smoke contains high levels of carbon monoxide due to the burning charcoal, as well as nicotine from the flavoured molasses,” Bame explains. “Contrary to popular belief, the water does not filter out these harmful toxins.”

Hookah smoke contains many of the same toxic chemicals found in cigarette smoke, including heavy metals and carcinogens. A typical 45-minute to one-hour hookah session can expose users to the equivalent of smoking 100 cigarettes in terms of smoke volume. Sharing hookah pipes also poses risks of infectious diseases like tuberculosis, herpes, and hepatitis.

Why people smoke

Despite widespread knowledge of its harms, people still initiate and continue to smoke due to a complex interplay of factors. Beyond marketing, psychosocial factors play a significant role. “Peer pressure, the desire to fit in, and the perception that smoking can help cope with stress are major drivers, especially among adolescents,” Bame explains. Nicotine addiction then becomes a powerful force in maintaining continued use.

The quitting challenge

Quitting tobacco use is difficult due to the highly addictive nature of nicotine. “However, the challenge goes beyond just the physical addiction,” Bame notes. “Smoking often becomes deeply ingrained in daily routines and social activities, creating strong behavioural and psychological dependencies.”

Certain places, people, or emotional states can trigger intense cravings. The fear of withdrawal symptoms and the lack of adequate support also contribute significantly to the difficulty of quitting.

You can quit!

The NCAS offers various programmes and support services to assist individuals in their journey to quit smoking. This includes a telephonic and WhatsApp quit-line (011 720 3145 / 072 766 4812) where people can receive advice and support from trained Quit Officers.

While specific success rates for these programmes can vary, Bame emphasises that having support significantly increases the chances of successful cessation compared to trying to quit alone. The NCAS also collaborates with other organisations and advocates for policies that create a supportive environment for quitting.

“The most critical and urgent message we want to convey to South Africans is that all forms of smoking are dangerous and carry serious health risks. The deceptive marketing of vaping and hookah as safer alternatives must be debunked. These products contain harmful chemicals and are often highly addictive, posing significant threats, especially to our youth.”

She urges the public to prioritise their health by choosing a smoke-free life. “Support the Tobacco Control Bill, educate yourselves and your families about the dangers of all smoking products, and reach out for help if you or someone you know wants to quit. A smoke-free South Africa is a healthier South Africa.”

zara2025-05-30T06:44:24+00:00

Cannabis Use in the Workplace: A Growing Concern

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, weed, or dagga, has gained widespread acceptance in recent years, with legalisation or decriminalisation in many parts of the world. While research has shown potential benefits for certain medical conditions, such as chronic pain, there are significant risks associated with its use. Emerging evidence increasingly highlights the addictive potential of cannabis and its devastating impact on an individual’s mental and physical well-being as well as their functioning in the workplace.

Dr. Thea van der Merwe, a psychiatrist at Changes Rehab, a drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre in Johannesburg, emphasises that the misconception that cannabis is non-addictive can have serious consequences.

“This misconception can lead to a significant underestimation of the potential for developing a serious cannabis use disorder,” she explains. “Even readily available products containing low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), such as CBD drops and gummies, can have adverse effects. This is particularly concerning for individuals with a predisposition to mental health conditions like psychosis, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.”

Dr. Van der Merwe adds that apart from the risk of triggering psychosis in predisposed individuals, other mental and physical health risks associated with long-term cannabis use and addiction include:

A-motivational Syndrome: This condition is characterised by apathy, a profound lack of motivation, and cognitive decline. As Dr. Van der Merwe describes, individuals may experience social withdrawal, becoming isolated in their rooms with little to no engagement in activities due to a complete loss of motivation. This debilitating condition can persist for up to a year even after an individual has stopped using cannabis, she adds.

Anxiety and Depression: Cannabis use can exacerbate these mental health issues.

Cognitive Decline: Prolonged cannabis use, regardless of when it begins, can have detrimental effects on cognitive function. This includes a decline in IQ1, difficulties with executive functions (planning, decision-making, and problem-solving), impaired memory, and slower processing speed. Early onset cannabis use carries heightened risks, as it interferes with brain development, impacting concentration, learning, and the ability to retain new information. Furthermore, it can increase the risk of psychosis and schizophrenia, conditions that often require lifelong treatment. Importantly, these adverse effects are not solely confined to young users. Even individuals who begin using cannabis later in life remain susceptible to these cognitive and mental health risks.

Increased risk for peripheral artery disease: This can cause conditions such as heart attack and stroke: Cannabis use can double the risk of heart attack.

Cancer risk: While less prominent than mental health risks, there is an increased risk of cancer, particularly in older users.

Impact in the workplace: Cannabis use can impair work performance, leading to demotivation, cognitive changes, absenteeism, and increased workplace accidents.

Many people think that using cannabis can help them to be more creative and productive, but this, says Dr. Van der Merwe, is a myth.

“Studies have not demonstrated any increase in creativity while under the influence of cannabis. While individuals may feel more creative and productive during cannabis use, subsequent evaluation often reveals that the initial perception of increased creativity is inaccurate. In fact, studies suggest that individuals may be twice as creative when not under the influence of cannabis.”

Several factors contribute to the difficulty in recognising and seeking help for cannabis addiction. Firstly, many users, especially those consuming low-THC products, may not perceive their cannabis use as problematic. Secondly, individuals experiencing psychosis or other mental health issues related to cannabis use often lack insight into their condition, leading to resistance towards treatment.

Recognising the signs of cannabis addiction is crucial for individuals to seek help themselves, or for family members and employers to encourage them to do so. These signs include:

Loss of Control: This includes using more cannabis than originally intended, using it for longer periods than planned, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, irritability, and aggression upon cessation or reduction of use.

Social impairment: Neglecting important responsibilities, such as work, school, or social activities, due to cannabis use.

Tolerance: Needing to use increasing amounts of cannabis to achieve the same effects.

Continued use despite negative consequences: Continuing to use cannabis despite experiencing problems in relationships, work, or health.

Cannabis use can significantly impact an individual’s productivity in the workplace including:

Cognitive impairment: Cannabis can impair cognitive functions such as memory, concentration, and decision-making. This can lead to difficulty completing tasks, decreased productivity at work, and an increased risk of errors.

Absenteeism: Frequent cannabis use can increase the likelihood of absenteeism due to illness, fatigue, or simply a lack of motivation.

Accidents and injuries: Impaired judgment and coordination can increase the risk of accidents and injuries in the workplace, particularly in safety-sensitive positions.

Interpersonal conflicts: Cannabis use can strain relationships with colleagues and supervisors, leading to conflicts and a negative work environment.

Addressing cannabis use and addiction in the workplace

Employers can play a crucial role in addressing the issue of cannabis use and addiction in the workplace. This can include:

Implementing drug-free workplace policies: Clear and consistent policies regarding drug use in the workplace can help deter employees from using drugs and provide a framework for addressing substance abuse issues.

Providing employee assistance programmes (EAPs): EAPs offer confidential counselling and support services to employees struggling with substance abuse issues.

Promoting a healthy work-life balance: Reducing workplace stress and promoting a healthy work-life balance can help employees cope with challenges and reduce their reliance on substances.

Raising awareness: Educating employees about the dangers of cannabis addiction and the resources available to them is important.

Conclusion
Despite the increasing acceptance of cannabis in many societies, it can have a significant and potentially devastating impact on an individual’s life, including their career. Recognising the signs of cannabis addiction, seeking appropriate treatment, and increasing public awareness about the risks are essential steps towards mitigating the harmful effects.

If you need assistance don’t hesitate to reach out to LifeAssist to get access to an expert.

zara2025-01-30T07:42:25+00:00

The Connection between Social Media and Suicide

Social media platforms have become a ubiquitous part of everyday life. They offer endless opportunities for connection, entertainment, and self-expression. However, alongside the many benefits of social media lies a darker side, one that has raised increasing concerns among mental health professionals: the connection between social media and suicide.

The Influence of Social Media on Mental Health

Social media can have a profound impact on mental health, particularly among young people and vulnerable persons. While platforms can provide a sense of community and support, they can also exacerbate feelings of loneliness, inadequacy, and depression. The constant barrage of images and posts that highlight the ‘perfect’ lives of others can lead to harmful comparisons and a distorted sense of self-worth.

Research has shown that individuals who spend excessive amounts of time on social media are more likely to experience mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. These issues, if left unaddressed, can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviours. The anonymity and lack of face-to-face interaction on social media can also make it easier for individuals to express these thoughts without seeking help, creating a dangerous cycle.

Cyberbullying and Its Consequences

One of the most significant ways social media contributes to suicide risk is through cyberbullying. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying can be relentless, with no escape for the victim. Harassment, threats, and public shaming can be amplified and perpetuated across platforms, leading to severe emotional distress.

Victims of cyberbullying often feel trapped and powerless, with no way to defend themselves or escape the torment. This overwhelming sense of hopelessness can lead some individuals to consider suicide as their only way out. Tragically, there have been numerous high-profile cases where young people have taken their own lives after being targeted by online bullies.

The Impact on Adolescents

The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory released the following: “Up to 95% of young people aged 13-17 report using a social media platform. Nearly two-thirds of teenagers report using social media every day and one third report using social media “almost constantly.” “The types of use and content children and adolescents are exposed to pose mental health concerns. Children and adolescents who spend more than 3 hours a day on social media face double the risk of mental health problems including experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety. This is concerning as a recent survey showed that teenagers spend an average of 3.5 hours a day on social media. And when asked about the impact of social media on their body image, 46% of adolescents aged 13-17 said social media makes them feel worse.”. For more details, refer to the US Surgeon General’s advisory.

The Role of Social Media in Suicide Contagion

Social media can also contribute to a phenomenon known as suicide contagion. When suicide is sensationalised or widely discussed on these platforms, it can sometimes lead to a ‘copycat’ effect, where vulnerable individuals are influenced to take their own lives. This is particularly concerning when graphic images, detailed methods, or glorification of suicide are shared.

The rapid spread of information on social media means that news of a suicide can reach a vast audience almost instantly. While raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention is critical, there is a fine line between education and harmful exposure. The way suicide is portrayed on social media can have a significant impact on how it is perceived and acted upon by others.

The Potential for Positive Change

Despite the risks, social media also has the potential to be a force for good in suicide prevention. These platforms can be powerful tools for raising awareness, sharing resources, and providing support to those in need. Online communities, mental health campaigns, and hotlines can reach individuals who might not otherwise seek help.

By promoting responsible use of social media and encouraging open conversations about mental health, we can enjoy the positive aspects of these platforms while minimising the risks. Social media companies need to take responsibility by implementing stricter content moderation policies, offering crisis support, and collaborating with mental health organisations.

As individuals, we can contribute by being mindful of our social media habits, supporting friends and loved ones who may be struggling, and advocating for safer online environments. By working together, we can help ensure that social media becomes a platform for positive change rather than a catalyst for tragedy.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to a mental health professional at LifeAssist or contact a suicide prevention hotline in your area. Remember, help is always available, and you are not alone.

zara2024-08-31T08:52:19+00:00

The Truth about Alcohol Abuse

Whilst the clinking of glasses often signifies celebration, there is a darker side of alcohol that often goes unnoticed until significant damage is done. Use of alcohol is often tied to social acceptance and cultural norms – prohibited in some cultures and promoted in others.

Many people feel that they can drink responsibly without placing themselves or others at risk, but there is a fine line between use and abuse of alcohol – when crossed it can be a slippery slide into dependency and addiction. It’s time for us to take a good look at this sensitive topic and consider how it impacts our lives directly and indirectly.

The hidden price

Alcohol abuse doesn’t just wreak havoc on physical health – think liver damage, heart disease, and a weakened immune system – but also takes a toll on mental wellbeing. Anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairments are often exacerbated by excessive drinking. Relationships crumble, careers falter, and personal dreams fade into the background as alcohol takes centre stage.

The deceptive escape

Many turn to alcohol as an escape from life’s pressures, but this relief is fleeting. The temporary numbness is a deceptive mask, hiding deeper issues that only worsen over time. What begins as a coping mechanism can quickly spiral into dependence, trapping individuals in a vicious cycle of abuse.

The path to recovery

Breaking free from alcohol abuse requires courage and support. Recognising the problem is the first step. From there, seeking help—whether through friends, family, or professional services—can start the process to recovery. There’s no shame in asking for help; in fact, it’s a testament to one’s strength and determination to reclaim their life.

A brighter tomorrow

Imagine a life where your health thrives, relationships flourish, and your mind is clear. This isn’t a distant dream but a reachable reality. By addressing alcohol abuse head-on, you can unlock a future filled with genuine joy, unclouded by the haze of alcohol.

The journey may be challenging, but the destination—a life of true wellbeing—is undeniably worth it. Reach out to a LifeAssist Counsellor today.

Cheers to a healthier, happier you!

zara2024-06-30T13:54:25+00:00

‘High’ly Functional

Many individuals struggling with substance abuse manage to maintain a façade of normalcy. These people can hold down jobs, maintain relationships, and appear successful, all while battling their addiction in secret. The term ‘high-functioning addict’ is often used to describe these individuals.

Functioning addicts often go unnoticed because they don’t fit the stereotypical image of addiction. Key characteristics of a high-functioning substance addict include:

Maintaining Responsibilities: They often hold down jobs, attend school, and fulfil family responsibilities, sometimes excelling in these areas despite their addiction.

Concealment: They are skilled at hiding their substance use from colleagues, friends, and family, often going to great lengths to cover up their behaviour.

Justification: They rationalise their substance use, believing they have it under control or using it as a reward for their hard work and achievements.

Inconsistent Behaviour: Although they may seem fine most of the time, there can be occasional lapses or erratic behaviours that hint at their substance use.

Denial: They often deny the extent of their problem, both to themselves and to others, believing they can quit anytime they want or that their usage is not problematic.

Stress and Health Issues: Despite outward appearances, their addiction often leads to internal stress, health problems, and mental health issues over time. Their hidden struggles can be just as damaging, both to themselves and to those around them.

Substance abuse comes in many forms, each with its unique challenges and coping mechanisms. Often, one addiction can lead to another, creating a vicious cycle where individuals seek out new substances or behaviours to achieve the desired effects or cope with the initial addiction’s consequences, referred to as “cross- addiction” or “addiction transfer”.

Alcohol Abuse: Excessive or frequent drinking of alcohol, often used to cope with stress or emotional pain.

Nicotine Abuse: Dependence on cigarettes, vapes, or other tobacco products, commonly used for stress relief.

Prescription Drug Abuse: Misuse of medications such as opioids, benzodiazepines, or stimulants, often originally prescribed for pain, anxiety, or attention disorders.

Illicit Drug Abuse: Use of illegal drugs like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, or ecstasy to escape life’s pressures or for recreational purposes.

Cannabis Abuse: Overuse or dependency on marijuana for its calming effects.

Inhalant Abuse: Sniffing or inhaling household chemicals like glue, paint thinners, or aerosols to achieve a high.

Hallucinogen Abuse: Use of substances like LSD, psilocybin (magic mushrooms), or PCP to alter perception and escape reality.

Steroid Abuse: Use of anabolic steroids to cope with body image pressures and enhance physical performance.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Drug Abuse: Misuse of readily available medications like cough syrups or cold medicines containing dextromethorphan or pseudoephedrine.

Caffeine Abuse: Excessive consumption of caffeine through coffee, energy drinks, or supplements, often used to cope with fatigue or enhance productivity.

Substance abuse can have serious physical, professional, and mental health consequences and often requires professional intervention and support to overcome. You are not alone. LifeAssist has a team of counsellors to support you, or a family member, to take charge of addiction. Get in touch now.

zara2024-06-02T09:21:41+00:00

Supporting a loved one with substance abuse problems

Dealing with substance abuse is one of the most challenging experiences anyone can face. Watching a loved one struggle with addiction can be particularly heartbreaking. You undoubtedly want to do everything you can to help them overcome their addiction and regain their health and wellbeing. However, it can be a complex and emotionally demanding task, and it’s essential to approach it methodically, practically and with as much support as possible.

The first step is to educate yourself about addiction. Learn about the physical, psychological, and social effects of drug and alcohol abuse and the various treatment options available. Familiarise yourself with the signs and symptoms of substance abuse, so you can recognise them and take appropriate action.

It’s also important to approach the situation with empathy and compassion. Addiction is a disease, and it’s not something anyone chooses or can control. Your loved one may feel ashamed, guilty, or hopeless, and it’s crucial to show them that you care and are there for them. Listen to them without judgement, offer emotional support, and be patient and understanding.

Another critical aspect is setting boundaries. Addiction can be incredibly manipulative, disruptive and destructive, and protecting yourself and your family from its effects is vital. This may mean establishing strict limits, such as not enabling or making excuses for them, refusing to bail them out of legal or financial problems, or not tolerating abusive or aggressive behaviour.

Treatment for substance abuse can take many forms, from counselling and therapy to medication-assisted treatment and inpatient rehabilitation. Encourage them to speak with a qualified addiction specialist, and offer to help them find the resources they need to get better.

Supporting a loved one with substance abuse problems can be emotionally challenging, and taking care of yourself is essential. Ensure you get enough rest, eat healthily, and engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfilment.

Consider joining a support group for family members of those struggling with addiction, and don’t hesitate to call LifeAssist to help or advice if you need it.

zara2023-03-27T13:47:26+00:00

How to party safely

‘Tis the season to be jolly, but with it comes the prospect of binge drinking, which might be harmful to one’s health. Make sure you and your loved ones are safe at all times with these tips:

Keep tabs. Always let someone know where you are. Downloadable smartphone tracker apps help keep you and your loved ones traceable.
Don’t drink and drive. Organise a lift with a non-drinker, take an uber, or stay with the party hosts. Most car insurances offer discounted rates on services that will take you and your car home safely.
Respect others. Avoid promoting drinking games that cause people to drink more alcohol than they realise.
Look out for friends. If a friend is drunk, encourage them to switch to non-alcoholic drinks and keep an eye on them.

Want to drink less?

Many of us drink alcohol at a party because we’re thirsty. Quench your thirst with water before/during the party to limit your capacity.
Pace yourself. Have non-alcoholic drinks in between. Take small sips, and slow down.
Smaller glasses. Try using smaller glasses and make drinks last longer.
Avoid top-ups. Always finish your drink before getting a new one to track your alcohol consumption.
Eating slows your drinking pace. Alcohol is absorbed slower on a full stomach.
Play pool, dance, engage in stimulating conversation or chew gum. Many people gulp their first drink to avoid initial party awkwardness. You’ll drink less if you have something to do, or keep your mouth occupied.

Want to avoid drinking altogether?

Prepare a script. It’s easier to decline a drink and avoid possible awkwardness if you’ve prepared a response e.g. “I’m going to stick with Sprite tonight, thanks” or “I’m up early tomorrow.”
Be creative. It’s tempting to drink alcoholic drinks because they may look more interesting than your boring bottle of sparkling water. Bring non-alcoholic drinks that excite you and get creative by adding fruit or other mixers.
Sit with feelings. Instead of diving for a drink, practice accepting feelings of social anxiety, boredom, or frustration. The more you can tolerate being in the moment, no matter what, the less likely you’ll drink away the feelings you don’t like.
Keep to your departure time. We often have the best intentions at the start of a party but later on, boundaries often fly out the window. Planning your departure in advance can protect you from regrets. But if you’re having a ball and feeling strong, keep partying!

Are you worried about your own, or a family member’s alcohol usage? Reach out to speak to a professional counsellor for guidance.

zara2022-11-30T16:42:16+00:00

Tis’ the season to be jolly

Many of us look forward to celebrations at this time of year, and for some, it’s an opportunity to kick back and relax with a couple of alcoholic beverages. However, drinking beyond one’s limits can have adverse consequences, such as fights, motor vehicle accidents, and in some cases leading to depression and in worst-case scenarios, fatalities.

Immediate effects

The specific effects of alcohol on each individual will vary; but it’s impossible to make good decisions when you’re intoxicated, and there’s no way to sober up quickly.

Initially, drinking may make you feel happy and excited, but it decreases inhibitions and leads to reckless, sometimes dangerous decisions such as drunk driving, or unprotected sex, followed by severe slumps in mood.

As more alcohol is consumed, reaction times get slower and behaviour becomes poorly controlled, sometimes even aggressive—leading to fights and other types of violence.

Alcohol, both over time and after a single incident of binge drinking, can damage the heart, leading to strokes, high blood pressure, and irregular heartbeats called “holiday heart syndrome,” which can cause heart attacks, even in the young and healthy.

Your immune system also takes a knock. Even one night of drinking a little too much can affect your body’s ability to fight infections, for up to 24 hours.

Continued drinking can also lead to blackouts, alcohol poisoning accompanied by severe vomiting, liver damage, and at even higher levels, can stop vital life functions.

Don’t be fooled

Many think that if they stop drinking and have a cup of coffee, they will sober up and be able to drive safely. The truth is that alcohol continues to affect the brain and body long after the last drink. It enters the bloodstream from the stomach, causing unnecessary risks to your health and personal safety for hours.

Plan ahead

Don’t underestimate the effects of alcohol indulgence this holiday season. If you decide to drink, stick to a limit (one or two drinks), and make sure you don’t drive or swim under the influence.

If you feel that you or a family member have a drinking problem, please call LifeAssist to talk to a counsellor. Let us help you.

zara2021-12-01T10:31:36+00:00

Caring Families

When looking for signs of drug use in children or young people the language that they use to talk about drugs can be one of the first warning signs. Do you know the slang?

Marijuana: Dagga, Zol, Ganja and Joint

Nyope: Whoonga or Wunga

Cocaine: Coke, Yayo, Blow and Klippe

Mandrax: White Pipe, Buttons, or Doodies

Ecstasy: Molly, Love Drug or Disco Biscuits

Heroine: H, Junk or Smack

Contact LifeAssist for guidance if you suspect your child is using drugs.

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