Westview Clinic dealing with the Covid-19 lockdown
Clinic's problems mirror those currently faced by the rest of South Africa
Drug and alcohol addition are often brought upon by a sense of helplessness and abandonment, and the national lockdown is playing a big role in amplifying that anxiety.
Roodepoort’s premier addiction recovery centre, Westview Clinic, is continuing their work of cushioning the blow felt when seeking help with addiction.
Restricted by the rules of the lockdown, the clinic is still admitting patients, but only one per week. “All new admissions initially are separated from other patients after assessment by medical staff,” said in-patient manager, Anthea Berriel. While in-patients are still conducting their group therapy sessions, Monday night support groups and family group sessions have been cancelled until further notice.
The clinic is taking every precaution to protect patients and staff alike by limiting contact and getting staff to and from work. “Staff are at the Clinic on a rotational basis and patients are issued with soap and hand sanitizers on admission. We provide transportation for staff reliant on public transport to and from work,” confirmed Anthea.
Two external factors have been playing a prominent role at the clinic, though, namely government’s controversial decision to ban cigarettes and alcohol, as well as price-gouging. A Dainfern-based supplier sent the clinic an invoice for R10 000 for 200 face masks, which did not sit well with Anthea. “It is shameful how people are exploiting our current situation. It makes my blood boil!” she fumed.
Banning cigarettes and alcohol has citizens nationwide in the throes of an agonising withdrawl, not to mention Westview. “Ninety per cent of our patients do smoke and find this period extremely challenging. This ban might have a positive effect, but someone with a long history of drinking and smoking will struggle to manage without intervention,” explained Anthea.
Civil groups have pleaded with government to reconsider their stance, but for now the public sits restless and agitated as it comes to terms with state-imposed deprivation.
