On almost a monthly basis, reports are published about police discovering multi-million rand drug labs in Gauteng. Currently, NGO’s, governmental institutions and law enforcement agencies are up against not only well-known street drugs, but also the invention or evolution of new drugs, such as “nyaope”. What this has meant is that professionals in the healthcare and rehabilitation industries have had to remain in tune with what is happening in and around the city, on a grassroots level.
For this reason, many drug rehabilitation centres in Gauteng work closely with other institutions who identify drug users in need of help, as well as law enforcement agencies who have the authority to refer patients to specific treatment programmes. Drug rehabilitation centres in Gauteng that have developed a solid method of treatment take both a personalised and collective approach to recovery. Both are essential components of effective treatment.
The Personal Approach
Many drug abusers who enter recovery, will begin their treatment with a detox programme. A personalised approach is required here, simply because no one drug affects everyone in the same way. While users of the same drug may share similar experiences, the way their body and mind reacts to withdrawal can differ. For this reason, a trained professional and doctor needs to be appointed to each patient to monitor their progress and attend to their needs.
Furthermore, one-on-one counselling is an essential part of treatment. At Crossroads Recovery Centres, a counsellor is assigned to each patient. Counsellors serve as much-needed confidantes – individuals who can be trusted to listen, challenge and guide the recovering addict towards finding a new way to live. This personalised approach is essential – it is important for recovering addicts to feel heard and understood rather than ignored and judged.
The Collective Approach
The personalised approach, when offered in tandem with group therapy has proven highly effective in the treatment of addiction. Group activities, workshops, support groups and group therapy are invaluable to the addict who has just entered recovery. Sometimes, knowing that they are not alone – that there are many others who can relate to their challenges and struggles, can be extremely encouraging. In a group setting, recovering addicts find a sense of belonging and camaraderie. No addict can recover in isolation. During group therapy, recovering addicts often form close bonds with their peers – bonds that last beyond the treatment programme. For many addicts, learning how to build and maintain honest relationships with others, often begins in a therapeutic space where a sense of community and mutual respect is fostered.
If you or a loved one needs advice on how to find recovery, know that help is readily available. Contact us for a free consultation and we’ll support you in your journey.
