Sonto Mahlangu

Bio: Sonto Mahlangu is an academic researcher from University of Pretoria. The author has an hindex of 2, co-authored 2 publications receiving 5 citations.

The aftercare needs of nyaope users and their significant others: implications for aftercare and reintegration services

Abstract: Nyaope is a relatively new drug on the South African market and mostly (mis)used by youths. Without targeted intervention, this drug could negatively affect the wellbeing of the people involved. Aftercare and reintegration services are often downplayed, with little emphasis in both research and practice. This article reports on the aftercare needs of nyaope users from both the users’ and the significant others’ points of view in Hammanskraal (a South African township). A collective case study was implemented through semi-structured interviews with both nyaope users and significant others. Recommendations are offered to role players involved in aftercare and reintegration services.

The Dangers Associated with Female Adolescents Consuming Nyaope Drug in Butterworth, South Africa

Abstract: Nyaope is a potent drug that is currently challenging South Africa; its ramifications have destroyed the country’s youth. The study described in this paper sought to explore the dangers associated with the consumption of Nyaope in Butterworth, South Africa. This study adopted an explorative and descriptive qualitative approach that involved the facilitation of focus group discussions and one-on-one interviews with twenty-six participants. An analysis of the findings of the study revealed the health hazards associated with consuming Nyaope and the tendency of Nyaope consumption to induce hallucinations and delusions in young people. Moreover, the study showed that Nyaope stimulated mood swings among female adolescents, its consumption created a fertile ground for conflict, and the addiction to Nyaope led to the destruction of the future of female adolescents. The researchers recommend the application of multiple approaches to preventing the initiation of Nyaope consumption. These approaches include attempts to control the peddling of Nyaope in schools and communities as well as the introduction of pro-active educational interventions regarding the dangers of Nyaope on the part of relevant institutions and government.

Aftercare services to people with substance use disorders: analysis of South African policy

Abstract: People with substance use disorders require comprehensive treatment, including planned aftercare, for improved treatment outcomes. However, access to treatment and aftercare is limited globally, as...

Substance abuse among high school learners in a rural education district in the Free State province, South Africa

Abstract: Background: In South Africa, many studies conducted on substance abuse among in-school youth focus on urban areas. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that rural areas are experiencing an increase in substance abuse, though there is dearth of studies in these areas. Methods: This study used a quantitative design to collect data from 629 high school learners who were in Grades 10 and 11 in public schools in rural Free State Province, to determine the prevalence of, and factors associated with substance use. Results: The sample consisted of 46% males and 54% females. Their ages ranged from 14 to 20 years, with a mean of 16.9 years. The prevalence of substance abuse was 47% ( n = 295) with alcohol consumption, cigarette and dagga smoking being the most common substances used. Socio-demographically, age and gender were significantly associated with substance abuse. While behavioural variables of physical fights, serious problems with parents and friends, poor academic performance, trouble with police, having sex without condom, and having sex and regretted the next day were significantly associated with substance abuse ( p = 0.05). Conclusion: The prevalence of substance abuse is very high for this rural school community, which highlights the need to pay attention to rural schools regarding substance abuse challenges.

The Role of Community-Led Support Groups in Facilitating Recovery for Young Adults with a Substance Use Disorder

Abstract: Substance use disorder is a cause of great concern globally and in South Africa in particular. Striking a balance between acute treatment and long-term community-based aftercare is important for sustained recovery from substance use disorder. Support groups play a vital role as a support strategy in recovery. In the article, we illustrate the ways in which community-led support groups can reduce the demand for expensive institutional treatment for readmission for substance use disorder. In the study, we adopted a qualitative exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design. Nine participants from three community-led support groups were recruited by using non-probability purposive and snowball sampling. The sampling criterion included participants aged between 18 and 35, in recovery from substance use disorder for six months and longer. The data were collected through online individual, semi-structured interviews and analysed using thematic analysis. The findings indicated that community-led support groups created a safe space where social support could be accessed. Support needs to avert relapse were identified and active responses were tailored to the needs of the group members.