Counselling and Careers Development Unit

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Breaking Down Substance Abuse

Substance abuse can be a difficult and lonely journey to navigate.

Some of the articles below help describe issues and concerns together with symptoms. They also point out resources of where and how to access assistance. You are never alone; The CCDU is a confidential caring space with professional staff. Seek assistance – asking for help is definitely a strength. For more information on substances click here:

Alcohol abuse small banner
South Africa has a high per capita alcohol consumption rate, with young adults more prone to harmful drinking patterns. Excessive drinking, including binge drinking, is at times seen to be part of the normal university experience. This may often lead to abuse and addiction. Click here to access infographic with more information.
Marijuana abuse banner
Marijuana, also known as cannabis, grass, boom, joint, zol, weed, hash, pot and many other street names, is South Africa’s most commonly used drug, especially among youth, because it is cheap and highly accessible. It is generally smoked but very often also by being mixed into a dough and baked, or used as tea leaves and the infusion is then drunk.
Hard core abuse banner
Cocaine, Heroin and Methamphetamine: No one, especially a young adult, likes to be lectured to about what he/she can or cannot do. It’s up to every individual to make an informed decision to remain drug-free or to seek out the assistance they need. In this article, we review a few illicit drugs termed illegal opioids and list some of the dangers associated with the use and addiction to these substances.
Mini banner prescription medication
Prescription Drug Addiction is a rapidly growing worldwide problem with a high causal factor of mortality. It is estimated that as much as 15% of the South African population suffers from drug addiction in one form or another. With no accurate figures or statistics gathered in relation to Prescription Drug Addiction, the amount of people who are suffering from this form of addiction is largely unknown.
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