GAUTENG DEPARTMENT TACKLES SUBSTANCE ABUSE IN HEIDELBERG

Emmasdal Child and Youth Care Centre Social Work Supervisor Lindiwe Lebjane during the substance abuse awareness campaign

By Tendamudzimu Goza 

• The Gauteng Department of Social Development hosted a substance abuse awareness campaign at the Emmasdal Child and Youth Care Centre in Heidelberg, targeting youth, children, and adults.
• The campaign aimed to educate the public about the dangers of substance abuse, its signs and symptoms, and the available support services.
• This initiative underscores the importance of community education and proactive measures in combating substance abuse, striving to foster healthier and more productive communities.

According to the World Health Organisation, substance abuse refers to the harmful use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs. Illicit drug use has significant negative health consequences and contributes to various social issues within communities. To address these challenges, the Gauteng Department of Social Development hosted a substance abuse awareness campaign at the Emmasdal Child and Youth Care Centre in Heidelberg on Friday.

The campaign targeted youth, children, and adults, aiming to educate and sensitise the public about the dangers of substance abuse and how to recognise its signs and symptoms. “The reason we are conducting this awareness campaign against substance abuse is that it is a significant problem in our communities. It continues to contribute to family disorder and negatively impacts productivity in schools and the workplace,” said Lindiwe Lebjane, a Social Worker Supervisor in the Department.

During the campaign, the department educated attendees about the symptoms of substance abuse and provided information on the services available to help those affected. The campaign emphasised that substance abuse affects everyone, making it crucial for all community members to be informed and proactive in preventing substance abuse. “Those who haven’t started abusing substances must never start, as they will gain nothing positive from using them,” urged Lindiwe Lebjane.

The Gauteng Department of Social Development’s initiative highlights the importance of community education and support in the fight against substance abuse, aiming to create healthier and more productive communities.

Picture taken by: Thabiso Khumalo