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Substance abuse has plagued communities for decades. But is the pandemic and the subsequent lockdown seeing more people turn to substances to escape their anxiety and depression?
Over the past two weeks, local police held a series of intelligence-driven operations. During these operations, the SAPS confiscated scores of mandrax tablets and alcohol. According to Lillian Gajoo of SANCA, this is a sore reflection of what is currently happening within the community.
“The number of substance abuse cases is increasing and the lockdown is contributing to the increase,” says Lillian.
Despite the government banning alcohol sales, she says as with illicit drugs, this has not stopped the black market. “The black market is flourishing and selling alcohol for exorbitant prices and people are willing to pay these prices.”
Furthermore, she explains that while mandrax and marijuana are often the drugs of choice, due to their affordability and being readily available, she says there are cases where dealers are lacing the dagga with chemical drugs. This is apparently to create an addiction within the usr.
But why are people turning more to alcohol and drugs during the lockdown?
“I feel the large number of people losing their jobs, the current economical situation is putting people under strain. They are stressed and depressed . Because of this, they are turning to drugs and alcohol to escape their issues.”
How bad has depression become since the start of the lockdown?
According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), they have been receiving more calls since the start of lockdown.
“COVID-19 and the lockdown has affected many South Africans, and it has had a serious impact on people living with a mental health issue often making their symptoms more heightened. SADAG has been receiving calls from people with no history of anxiety or depression who are feeling overwhelmed, anxious and stressed”, says SADAG’s Operations Director Cassey Chambers.
Furthermore, SADAG conducted an online survey on Mental Health during the COVID-19 lockdown via various online platforms.
Within 10 days, 1200 participants completed the short 7-minute survey asking participants about their home life, their mental health before and during lockdown, how they accessed information and what coping tips helped them to manage their mental health during the lockdown.
The survey found that while 92% of the respondents supported the lockdown, 65% of people felt extremely stressed during it.
Furthermore, approximately 62% of the respondents were currently employed. However, 38% were unemployed at the time of the survey.
SADAG found the main issues during the lockdown were:
- Anxiety and Panic
- Financial stress and pressure
- Depression
As people find themselves facing overwhelming challenges during the pandemic, Lillian emphasises people can reach out for help.
If you or a loved one has a substance abuse problem, contact SANCA Newcastle on 034 312 3641 or visit their offices at 57 Paterson Street.
