March marks Human Rights Month in South Africa — a time to reflect on dignity, equality, and the rights that belong to every person. But for many individuals struggling with substance use, these rights are often overlooked. At South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, we believe one thing is clear: Recovery is not a luxury. It is a human right. The Right to Dignity in Recovery Addiction does not erase a person’s rights. Every individual deserves: Access to...

Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Month reminds us of a powerful truth: prevention is easier than recovery. Addiction does not begin overnight. It often starts with small choices, influenced by stress, peer pressure, trauma, or emotional pain. But in the same way addiction develops gradually, healthy lifestyles can also be built step by step — and these steps can protect individuals, families, and entire communities. At SANCA, prevention is one of our strongest tools in the fight against substance...

Millions of individuals, every year, make it a goal to improve their health as part of their New Year's resolution. In what has become known as Dry January or Sober January, one of the most popular New Year's resolutions is minimising alcohol intake. It is usually advisable to approach a challenge with a strategy for success. Dry January is not an exception, and there are easy actions that everyone can do to make the month as successful as possible. EXPECT TRIGGERS AND CRAVINGS All habits,...