My Blog
“Boys Do not Cry”: How Masculinity Myths Fuel Addiction in South Africa
From a young age, many boys are taught to suppress their emotions. Phrases like “man up”, “real men don’t cry”, and “deal with it” are often ingrained in our culture. These messages don't just shape how boys perceive themselves—they can have lasting effects on...
When Boundaries Feel Like Betrayal
If you are in recovery, or if someone you care about is, you have probably heard the word boundaries more than once. Setting boundaries is a key part of healing. But let us be honest — it does not always feel good. In fact, it can feel painful, confusing, and even...
Breaking Free from Shame: The Hidden Link Between Addiction and Healing
If you are caught in the painful loop of shame and addiction, please know this: you are not alone, and there is a way through. Shame is often the quiet, heavy emotion behind addiction. It whispers that you are not good enough, that you are weak, that you have failed....
The Effects of Substance Use: Mind, Body, Family, and Community
Substance use is a complex issue that affects not only individuals but also their families and the wider community. In South Africa, substance use remains a growing concern, with alcohol, cannabis, and methamphetamine (commonly known as "tik") being some of the most...
Rebuilding Relationships After Addiction: A Guide to Healing and Trust
Addiction affects not only the individual struggling with it but also the people closest to them. Family members, friends, and partners often experience pain, betrayal, and broken trust. Once a person enters recovery, one of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects...
Addiction and Willpower: Why Quitting Is Not Just a Matter of Choice
Addiction remains one of the most misunderstood conditions, often shrouded in stigma and misconceptions. Many believe it stems from poor self-control or moral weakness. However, research and science paint a vastly different picture. Addiction is a complex interplay of...
Healthy Masculinity in Recovery: Building Resilience Together
In the journey to recovery from addiction, men often face unique pressures due to societal expectations surrounding masculinity. The message to “man up” and handle things alone has long been ingrained in many cultures, leading to isolation, suppressed emotions, and...
Managing Mental Health During Addiction Recovery
Why Mental Health is Key to Addiction Recovery As we acknowledge Mental Health Awareness Month and Sober October, it is a good time to talk about the deep connection between addiction, recovery and mental health. In South Africa, nearly 43% of people with substance...
Addiction in South Africa: My Commitment to Compassionate Care and Support
As someone who has dedicated most of my life to supporting individuals, families, and communities affected by addiction, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges that addiction presents in South Africa. It’s an issue that touches every corner of our society, and while it’s...
Involuntary Admission to Rehab: What Medical & Health Professionals Need to Know
The addict is normally the last person to see that they have a problem and most people struggling with addiction need external support and motivation to enter a treatment process. Families feel the chaos of addiction and seek help from medical and mental health...