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Meaning of life in recovery
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Have you ever found yourself in a spiritual conversation with someone, pondering the meaning of life? “I know I have, a number of times,” says Karen Griessel, a social worker at SANCA rehab centre Wedge Gardens. “It is in finding purpose that we also find comfort in this life because we feel like we are… Read more
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A new normal
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Adaptation is a word in psychology that basically describes changing to meet needs within a certain context and situation. It involves two processes, namely ASSIMILATION – applying past knowledge to new situations and ACCOMMODATION – altering past knowledge to fit the new. “We all had to learn how to adapt within the restrictions of the… Read more
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Cheers to Wedge Gardens’ inspirational nurses
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SANCA Wedge Gardens toasted its nursing staff recently for the excellent job they did in caring for their substance abuse recovery patients during the worst of the coronavirus pandemic. On September 4, the nurses were all presented with a specially-made coffee cup that reads: Never underestimate a nurse who survived the 2020 coronavirus pandemic. Sister… Read more
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Illegal cigarettes and substance abuse
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South Africa has banned the sale of cigarettes during lockdown to slow the spread of COVID-19 but the big illegal cigarette brands are now the best sellers around the country. “As most of us know, smoking is one of the leading causes of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases worldwide. Unlike legally produced cigarettes, illicitly… Read more
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COVID-19, mental health and substance abuse
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People who abuse drugs or alcohol often do so to cope with anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. A global pandemic like COVID-19 can trigger a wide range of emotional reactions, causing high levels of anxiety and stress for all of us. “Substance use and abuse during this time should be avoided but ironically,… Read more
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Ten years sober!
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My life revolved around alcohol, says 51-year-old James Algera who recently celebrated 10 years of sobriety. After growing up in Rustenburg in the North West, James – like all abled bodied South African boys at the time – was conscripted into the South African army for his national service. It was while in the army… Read more
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Faith versus fear
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KAREN GRIESSEL, A SOCIAL WORKER AT JOHANNESBURG’S SANCA WEDGE GARDENS TREATMENT CENTRE, TALKS ABOUT FAITH VERSUS FEAR AND HOW HAVING FAITH CAN HELP THE ADDICTION RECOVERY PROCESS: During these trying times, a common experience many are having is the uncertainty of what tomorrow holds. There have been many job losses and few opportunities exist. Then… Read more
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The nudge you need to stop smoking
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It is difficult to stop smoking. You will have intense cravings, be irritated, may feel depressed and anxious and may even have slight flu symptoms such as a headache, cough, sore throat and even nausea. “There is no magic pill,” says Karen Griessel, a social worker at Sanca rehab centre Wedge Gardens, based in Johannesburg.… Read more
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Wedge Gardens pays tribute to volunteers
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Volunteers who give of their time to help Wedge Gardens rehab centre patients reclaim their place in society are owed a huge debt of gratitude. This is according to Adèl Grobbelaar, the manager of the Rand Aid-run treatment centre in Johannesburg. Wedge Gardens hosted a thank you function on December 6 at which tribute was… Read more
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Addicted to your recovery during the festive season
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During the festive season, it is especially challenging to stay clean or sober. “Emotions, stress and exposure leave those suffering from a substance abuse disorder vulnerable and loved ones should be extra supportive,” says Karen Griessel, a social worker at Wedge Gardens rehab centre. “For many families, this time of the year is even more… Read more
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010 534 6596
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wedgegardens@randaid.co.za
