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Mental Health Information Centre - Southern Africa

Substance abuse and dependence

The use of illicit drugs, especially the so-called “hard drugs”, has increased in South Africa. This is reflected by the increased demand for treatment, especially marked in young people.

The 5 most addictive substances on Earth – and what they do to your brain

What are the most addictive drugs?

SANCA Drug Awareness week: 24 – 28 June 2015

Cannabis use can lead to multiple health and psychiatric complications The possession and use of cannabis is illegal in South […]

New insights into an old problem

Approximately 170,000 people die from alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver in Europe every year.

What is Korsakoff’s syndrome?

Korsakoff’s syndrome is a brain disorder usually associated with heavy alcohol consumption over a long period.

Alcohol Use and the Risk of Developing Alzheimer’s Disease

Some of the detrimental effects of heavy alcohol use on brain function are similar to those observed with Alzheimer’s disease […]

26 June is Substance Awareness Day

Substance abuse in South Africa has reached near epidemic proportions. Methamphetamine (tik), marijuana and alcohol in particular are devastating to […]

What Is Marijuana? What Is Cannabis?

When talking about the drug, marijuana and cannabis both have the same meaning.

Marijuana Tied to Addiction, Long-term Cognitive Dysfunction

Marijuana use is associated with substantial adverse events, including addiction and long-term cognitive dysfunction, new research suggests.

Booster Pills The Quick Fix?

Stellenbosch doctors warn against the addiction and dependence which can develop from taking Ritalin.

Life’s precipice puts addiction into perspective

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Mental Health Topics

In partnership with:


University of Stellenbosch
South African Medical Research Council
University of Cape Town