Profile
South Coast Recovery Centre has been in operation since 13 February 2001.
The objective in developing SCRC was to provide effective treatment protocols, which work. The motivation is to provide a cost-effective programme that is managed by a team of professionals whose motivation, dedication and absolute commitment is to the successful recovery of residents in our care.
From an initial staff of just three, SCRC now employs a staff of over 40 caregivers, all with extensive expertise and experience in their respective fields. The multidisciplinary therapeutic team comprises of addiction counsellors, social workers, occupational therapists, professional and enrolled nurses, and a doctor. Most importantly, all are exceptionally committed to this ministry.
SCRC is situated in Ramsgate on the sub-tropical lower KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, strategically positioned for the therapeutic and outdoor environment needed during the rehabilitation process. Whilst being easily accessible, it is also far from the cities, thus providing a safe environment that greatly reduces temptation in the early stages of recovery.
SCRC occupies 23 acres on properties which have been acquired and equipped for the specific purpose of supporting a therapeutic community. Several staff members reside on-site to ensure effective support at all times.
SCRC is registered with the Department of Social Development, the Department of Health, the Board of Health Funders, the local municipality, as well as numerous international bodies.
SCRC specialises in the treatment of addiction to all substances (crack, cocaine, heroin, marijuana, Mandrax, ecstasy, alcohol, etc), obsessive compulsive disorders, as well as the treatment of behaviour disorders, eating disorders, sexual disorders, abuse, trauma and bereavement. Life skills training and development are also provided within this process.
- Rehabilitation: To restore rightful position, place and potential in society restore to effectiveness potential or normal life by training.
- Training: To instruct so as to make proficient.
- The development of self-discipline and self-control are imperative.
In our approach that recovery is possible, we have strong faith in:
- Ephesians 4: 17-32 - that the individual is able to renew themselves in spirit, mind and body and are able to move away from their old behaviour; and
- Ephesians 6: 10-18 -, that we are fighting a Spiritual War.
In the establishment of, and work done at SCRC, we give all the Glory and Honour to the Lord our God!
How effective is Addiction Treatment?
Addiction is a treatable disorder. Addicts can learn to control and manage their condition and live productive lives through treatment that is tailored to their individual needs.
Over many years, it has been proven that those who stay in treatment for longer than three months have better outcomes than those who stay for less. It has also been shown that shorter treatment periods often perform in a similar fashion as if no treatment was undergone at all.
It is widely believed that addiction is limited to the using and abusing of drugs and, therefore, it is expected that addiction will be cured, and will be cured quickly. In reality, addiction is a disorder that needs sustained input and management. Extensive research shows, however, that addiction treatment can be as effective as the treatment of other chronic medical conditions.
Due to the fact that addiction has so many dimensions and disrupts so many aspects of an individual's life, treatment is never simple. In order to be effective, the treatment programme needs to incorporate many components, each directed to a particular aspect of the illness and its consequences.
In addition to stopping drug use, the goal of treatment is to return the individual to productive functioning in the family, workplace and community. This is established by achieving a paradigm shift from a "culture of addiction" to a "culture of recovery". Measures of effectiveness typically include levels of family functioning, employability and attitude.
An integral part of successful recovery is the commitment of the addict and the support of the family. A strong emphasis is placed on the application of knowledge and skills learned, not only after leaving treatment, but during treatment as well.
SCRC currently enjoys an exceptionally high sustained recovery rate of residents that successfully complete the programme.
We adopt the approach that recovery is possible and achievable and we WILL do what it takes!
How long is the Duration of Addiction Treatment?
Individuals progress through treatment at various speeds and it is, therefore, difficult to predetermine the length of treatment. Once an individualised treatment plan has been developed, and after the first month of treatment, a comprehensive assessment will be made in conjunction with all members of the therapeutic team and the family. Case reviews and continuous progress assessments play a role in influencing further interventions, and thus the expected treatment duration.
The factors that impact on this include attitude, willingness, depth of addiction, polydrug use, length of use, drug of choice, health, and physical condition. Comorbidity and the prevalence of associated disorders, such as bi-polar or depression, also needs to be taken into consideration.
Research has shown, unequivocally, that good outcomes are contingent on adequate lengths of treatment; participation for less than 90 days is of limited effectiveness. This is particularly the case when dealing with cocaine, crack, crystal meth (tik), heroin, and eating disorders. Often 30 – 90 days can pass before the abuser realises that they are in withdrawal (UNODC – 2008).
What has been shown is that the cravings and cycles thereof are very high after the initial 4-6 weeks of treatment. For this reason a secure and supportive environment is necessary.
From a psychological perspective, it takes 28 days to break a habit, and 28 days to establish a new habit. In addition, a great number of life skills, management and belief systems need to be established and assessed within the rehabilitation environment.
The minimum programme length at SCRC is five months. Treatment will only be considered to be complete once the resident has actualised all the requirements, which includes all work up to and including Step 7, and a comprehensive Relapse Prevention Plan, Relapse Warning Signs and Life Plan.
Why can't drug addicts quit on their own?
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Nearly all addicted individuals believe in the beginning that they can stop using drugs on their own, and most try to stop without treatment. Most of these attempts, however, result in failure to achieve long-term abstinence. Research has shown that long-term drug use results in significant changes in brain function that persists long after the individual stops using drugs. These drug-induced changes in brain function may have many behavioural consequences, including the compulsion to use drugs despite adverse consequences. An understanding that addiction has an important biological component helps explain an individual's difficulty in achieving and maintaining abstinence without treatment. Psychological stress from work or family problems, social cues (such as meeting individuals from one's drug-using past), or the environment (such as encountering streets, objects, or even smells associated with drug use) interact with biological factors to hinder attainment of sustained abstinence and make relapse more likely. |
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Effective life and management skills need to be learnt and practiced whilst in a protected environment in order for an individual to be given the most effective opportunity of a normal, purpose driven life. The location is an important facet of any recovery programme. SCRC is situated on 23 acres of natural fauna on properties which have been acquired and equipped for the specific purpose of supporting a therapeutic community, 1km from a quiet beach, providing a safe and drug free environment. We are far enough away from any high-risk areas to distract and/or lure the addict during recovery and re-integration, whilst still being accessible to airport and bus routes. The environment and climate are conducive to rehabilitation; another facet of our programme is addressing physical recovery. Attention is given to the nutritional and fitness needs necessary to rebuild a healthy body and mind. We enjoy the support of the local community, Churches, schools, local Netcare Hospital and security services. |
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We will do whatever it takes ...
SCRC's approach is aimed at facilitating change from the culture of addiction to the culture of recovery.
This process will yield limited success when approached outside of a residential treatment facility particularly when detoxification is required. It is imperative that individuals entering treatment are given as much training and education as possible.
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