It is a big step to address your substance abuse problem and the SANCA Heidelberg team would like to assist you in this life changing journey. This page will highlight your options and what is expected from you.
STEP 1: Get assessed!
An assessment will take less than an hour of your time.
It will allow us to get to know you better.
Determine in what phase of addiction you are.
This will also assist us to advise you on the best treatment option for you.
It is best to ask a family member to accompany you to your assessment.
Remember to bring your Identity book.
STEP 2: Medical assessment!
Given the strain that alcohol and drugs take on your body it is vital for a medical assessment.
Our nurse will do a general medical check-up.
Conduct a drug test.
You will also be referred to our Doctor who will assess you and provide medication for symptomatic relief.
You may also be referred to the local provincial hospital for detoxification. They will only admit services users with alcohol or heroin addiction who is severely withdrawing.
It is important to remember that medicine is not the solution, but only one of the tools to assist you in your recovery process.
What medication won’t do:
Medication won’t cure you.
Medication won’t take away the urge to do drugs or drink alcohol.
Medication won’t fix your problems.
Medication won’t mend your broken relationships.
What medication will do:
Medication will provide symptomatic relief for your withdrawal symptoms.
Once the withdrawal symptoms are bearable it is important to manage without medication.
STEP 3: Choose your recovery option
You have 2 options:
You can decide to attend the Community Based Treatment Program at SANCA.
Or
You can decide to go to an In-patient Treatment Centre either a private rehab center (own cost) or be referred to a State Rehabilitation Centre.
Option 1: Community Based Treatment
This program consists out of an 8 week Program. You will attend on a weekly basis for therapy, medical and information sessions. Remember recovery is a full-time responsibility and therefore you will often receive practical assignments to implement in your life. We can only give you the tools but you need to implement and make the changes. Weekly support group sessions are also available.
Option 2: In-patient Treatment
In-patient treatment usually consists out of a 6 week programme. During the 6 weeks you will stay at the rehabilitation centre and take part in numerous counselling and group sessions. If you wish to go to a private rehab center you will be responsible for the account. If you have no funds or medical aid SANCA can assist you to apply to go to one of our State Rehabilitation Centers. Given the great demand and due to no costs involved – there is an extensive waiting list. So whilst you wait for a space to become available we strongly recommend that you start with the Community Based Treatment program.
STEP 4: Let the therapy begin!
Whichever option you choose, it is important to note that therapy is a vital part of recovery. You will be guided in every step of the way and will gain knowledge and life skills enabling you to make the necessary lifestyle changes. To reap the benefits, it is very important that you complete your programme.
STEP 5: Aftercare
Recovery entails a complete lifestyle change that you will need to maintain for the rest of your life. Aftercare is one of the most crucial steps in your recovery process. Yet this step most people fail to complete. After your Community Based Treatment or In-patient treatment, you will be required to take part in aftercare services. Your Aftercare plan will need to be adapted to your personal needs.
What rehab cannot do?
Rehab is not a vacation.
Rehab is not a quick fix
Rehab does not take away your problems.
Rehab does not mend broken relationships
Rehab does not change your circumstances
Rehab does not make life choices for you
RECOVERY IS HARD WORK AND TAKES MOTIVATION AND COMMITMENT. YOU NEED TO TAKE ACTION. YOU NEED TO DO THE WORK!
What rehab can do?
Rehab can provide you with a safe and secure environment to address your addiction and associated problems.
Rehab can inform, advice and guide you.
Your Rights:
You have the right to access professional service delivery.
You have the right to be treated with dignity and respect.
You have the right to confidentiality.
You have the right to ask questions and make decisions.
Your Responsibilities:
It’s your responsibility to abstain from drugs and make lifestyle changes.
It is your responsibility to be honest with the therapist at all times.
It’s your responsibility to maintain respectful conduct at all times.
It’s your responsibility to be timeous for your appointments.
It’s your responsibility to make sure that you always have an appointment for your next session.