Addiction

Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders

This article will provide a discussion on the relationship between mental disorders and substance use disorders. This will be achieved by initially providing definitions of the various terms which will be utilised in the article, after this, a discussion on the issues around establishing a connection between mental disorders and substance use disorders will be provided. Lastly, there will be a discussion on the common mental disorders that are associated with substance use disorders.

Modern Medicine – Issue 5 2023

Tranquility Acquires Eden Recovery Centre

Encircled by majestic beauty in the core of Gauteng’s countryside, Eden Recovery Centre provides an idyllic environment for individuals seeking professional help for substance abuse and mental health challenges. Situated in the premium equestrian suburb of Glenferness, Kyalami, the facility boasts lush gardens and picturesque alcoves that assist in the healing process.

Modern Medicine – Issue 6 2021

COVID and Substance Abuse

Whilst substance abuse can increase the risks associated with a COVID infection, the economic, social and psychological risks of the pandemic can favour and intensify drug abuse, in a potentially dangerous cycle.

Modern Medicine – Issue 2 2021

Trauma and Substance Abuse A High Risk in Frontline Staff During COVID

In South Africa, healthcare professionals have not been medically trained to deal with a pandemic like COVID and neither do they have the necessary experience. Further, this pandemic has highlighted the shortcomings in our healthcare system.

Modern Medicine – Issue 1 2021

Beware of Relapse Risk When Treating Postsurgical Pain

Recovering addicts are susceptible to relapse after medical interventions for pain management, including surgery. In 2017, it was estimated that 26 to 36 million people worldwide abuse opiates.

Modern Medicine – Issue 5 2020

Halfway House: Transition from Inpatient Treatment to Home

A halfway house is an institution for substance abusers to learn, or relearn, the necessary skills to re-integrate into society. They are termed halfway houses due to their being halfway between an inpatient treatment facility and independent living.

Modern Medicine – Issue 4 2020

Substance Abuse Among Healthcare Professionals, a Little Discussed Subject

Healthcare workers are known to have an equal rate of alcohol and illegal drug use as the general public. However, healthcare workers are far more likely to abuse prescription medications. It is estimated that approximately 10% to 14% of all healthcare professionals will misuse drugs or alcohol at some time during their career. Higher rates of abuse have been seen more frequently with benzodiazepines and opioid narcotics. Any healthcare worker who has access to controlled substances is at risk for drug diversion and substance abuse.

Modern Medicine – Issue 6 2019

When You Suspect Substance Abuse in Teens

When faced in a clinical setting with an adolescent suspected of or known to have a substance abuse problem, it is important to have an efficient assessment process that can identify substance use and related problems, psychiatric comorbidity and psychosocial maladjustment.

Modern Medicine – Feb/March 2019