The IFP is extremely concerned about consumption of alcohol in KwaZulu-Natal and also in the country as a whole.
This follows the drink-fuelled fight broke out allegedly between a Metro police officer and a group of friends which led to mass shooting in Durban flat recently.
The alcohol problem is catastrophic. It is a disaster. This is an indication that South Africa is no longer a transit nation but slowly drifting to a drug and alcohol consumer nation. The issue has to be addressed nationally and amicably. We should look at why the drinking habits are getting worse. We must agree we have a problem that needs immediate action.
The IFP believes that there needs to be a drive in the health ministry for a vibrant service for drug and alcohol addiction throughout the country.
The IFP believes that interventions are needed to reduce rates of alcohol abuse and subsequently alcohol related disorders. Rehabilitation centres are needed to provide people with problems of alcohol with appropriate support.
Furthermore, the IFP is of the view that as some cops suffer from certain mental health issues at a higher rate than the general population, they often use drugs or alcohol to self-medicate to obtain relief from symptoms. Every cop should be evaluated for mental health issues with a focus on problems with guilt resolution, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. Cops are loath to admit that they have mental health issues and therefore treaters should employ a proactive approach. Appropriate therapy, combined with medications to address their mental health issues go a long way in addressing their substance use disorders.
The fact is that people see police officers as public servants who are charged with keeping the peace and making sure everyone is safe. They rarely see them as infallible human beings who are capable of developing addictions like everyone else. The truth is that law enforcement personnel are capable of becoming addicts, and it’s so important to recognize this so that those who are addicted to drugs or alcohol can get the help that they so desperately need.
The IFP says if you are addicted, get help now. Comprehensive addiction treatment can help you, this will give you the best chance to move into a healthy life balance and leave substance abuse behind.
In short, the IFP believes that the best way to deal with South Africa’s alcohol problem is for the government to sober up.
Contact:
Mrs Ncamisile Nkwanyana MPL, IFPP KZN Provincial Spokesperson on Social Development, 078 302 3991
Date 28th February 2019
