The Kick Your Habit Challenge, aimed at encouraging people to quit their addiction, is ongoing in June.
The initiative is run under the auspices of Aurora in conjunction with the South African Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (Sanca).
The initiative also raises awareness of the complexities relating to addiction and dependency.
This national and public campaign will be launched at selected schools in Bloemfontein this year as part of intensifying awareness.
According to statistics, drug consumption in South Africa is the highest in Africa and twice the global average.
South Africa is ranked among the top ten countries in the world when it comes to the abuse of narcotics and alcohol.
“Drug and alcohol dependency is destabilising the fabric of South African society and is often linked to other social ills (such as violent crime, gender-based violence, child abuse and ever-increasing HIV/AIDS incidence rates).
“The South African youth are particularly vulnerable to the experimentation and long-term use of substances (be it alcohol, illicit drugs, or even over-the-counter and prescription medication). The cost to the country is measured not merely in rands, but also in loss of creativity, innovation, artistry and talent to name a few,” said Marietjie Landsberg, director at Aurora centre.
The campaign seeks to inform the public about the services available; not only for drug users, but also to the family members and other individuals who support people with substance use disorders.
Whether this ‘thing’ is caffeine, tobacco, chocolate, or even shopping, is entirely up to the individual’s discretion; however, it is important to consider your choice and select the habit that you use on a regular basis.
Part of tackling your habit is to keep a daily online log, or blog of your progress.
This allows one to create awareness of the difficulties faced by dependents.
For details to participate in the Aurora Kick Your Habit Challenge, contact Rethabile Lenkoe on 051-447-4111, send an email to youthcentre@auroracentre.co.za or visit the Facebook page: Aurora Alcohol and Drug Centre.
