'Tik' is the most used drug in the Western Cape - report

Most people in the Western Cape use the drug, tik as a primary substance.

This was revealed by the latest Phase 50 report, released in 2022, which was compiled by the South African Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use, reported by 36 specialist treatment centres/programmes between January & June 2021.

South Africa commemorates National Drug Awareness Week between 20 – 27 June 2022.

According to the report, 35% used Tik, 24% cannabis, 18% used alcohol and 7% for heroin which together, comprises 84 percent of all admissions.

According to the Western Cape’s Social Development MEC, Sharna Fernandez, more than 2 433 people were treated across all 36 treatment centres in the first half of 2021. She added that close to 9 200 individuals accessed substance abuse prevention and treatment services offered by the Department and its partners.

“No one grows up thinking they are going to become addicted to alcohol or drugs. I would like to thank all the individuals, communities, organisations and civil society working together to help provide support to those experiencing a substance use disorder. Anybody needing more information or assistance can contact us on the www.heretohelp.co.za website, or the DSD hotline on 0800 220 250,” said Fernandez.

 

PICTURED: Screenshot of latest SACENDU report

Done By: Mitchum George