Definitions
Addiction
Uncontrollable use of substances despite the negative consequences/effects.
What is the legal age of drinking in South Africa?
18 Years Old
Addiction only happens to certain kinds of people.
MYTH. Addiction can happen to anyone of any age, race, gender, nationality etc..
What are the key organs affected by substance use?
Brain, Heart, Liver, Lungs
(Substance use can actually affect every organ)
What is the most commonly abused drug in SA?
Marijuana
Withdrawal
Symptoms that occur when someone suddenly stops using substances after chronic use, such as vomiting, cramping and anxiety.
Is vaping legal in SA?
Yes, if you are over 18 years old.
Only 'hard drugs' like cocaine and heroin are addictive.
MYTH. All substances can be addictive, including alcohol, marijuana and prescribed medication from a doctor!
Which substance can cause delays in puberty and shorter limbs?
Excessive alcohol use as a teenager.
What harmful drug used to be advertised as cough medicine in 1982?
Heroin
Tolerance
Condition where higher doses of the same drug are needed to reach the same high as the first use.
What is the driving alcohol limit in SA?
BAC of 0.05%. That roughly equals just more than one beer.
Vaping is harmless.
MYTH. While vaping is seen as healthier than smoking cigarettes, it is still not safe. Research has shown it is bad for your heart and lungs.
What are the psychological effects of substance use?
Depression, anxiety, problems with development, schizophrenia and many more.
How many drinks is considered binge drinking?
Males: 4 drinks
Females: 5 drinks
*In one sitting
Polysubstance Abuse
Abuse of two or more substances at the same time.
E.g., alcohol and marijuana.
Only certain amounts are legal for adults (18+) to use in private spaces.
It is still illegal to sell, use in a public space, have more than the prescribed amounts, use in front of children and drive after use.
Smoking marijuana is safer than smoking cigarettes.
MYTH. Research shows that smoking marijuana has the same health risks as tobacco and they have similar effects on the lungs.
How long does it take your body to fully recover after using marijuana one time?
Up to 3 weeks.
What are the 6 stages of addiction?
1. Initial Use/Experimentation
2. Abuse
3. Tolerance
4. Dependence
5. Addiction
6. Relapse
SANCA
South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence
What happens if you break the laws around drugs in SA?
You could be fined, go to jail, or both. Jail time ranges from 5 to 25 years depending on the offence.
Nicotine only takes 10 seconds to reach the brain.
TRUE. Nicotine is the fastest acting drug.
What is a carcinogen and how many are found in tobacco?
A cancer-causing agent. Around 50 are found in tobacco.
If a person buys 1 disposable vape per week for a year, how much money are they spending?