Addiction and mental health issues affect many people worldwide, either personally or through friends and family, Cape {town} Etc reports.
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With one in four people globally experiencing mental health conditions and 35 million struggling with drug use disorders, the problem is significant.
In South Africa, addiction rates are rising, as highlighted by the 2023 survey from the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC).
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In response, the 10th annual Recovery Walk Cape Town (RWCT) is set to take place on Saturday, 28 September 2024, at Lentegeur Psychiatric Hospital in Mitchells Plain.
This event, held in September to coincide with International Recovery Day, aims to raise awareness and fight the stigma associated with addiction and mental illness.
The highlight of the day will be the awareness walk, where participants will march through the streets to celebrate and promote the possibility of recovery.
The event will also feature various organisations promoting their services, and attendees will have the chance to share their own recovery stories.
The ethos of RWCT is centred on ‘Open Recovery,’ which emphasises the power of individual recovery narratives to inspire others and highlights diverse recovery solutions.
By showcasing successful recoveries and fostering an accessible recovery community, the event seeks to challenge the pervasive stigma surrounding addiction and mental health.
Attendees can join a vibrant 5km walk adorned with messages of hope. Registration begins at 9:30am, with the formal programme starting at 11am. The day will also include information stalls on recovery, guest speeches, open mic sessions, music, creative workshops, and opportunities for community connections.
RWCT is calling for volunteers and offers free information stands to organisations working in addiction and mental health.
‘Harmful substance use affects nearly every facet of society,’ said Warren Cornelius, a committee member for RWCT and Team Lead for Prevention Advocacy and Recovery Programming at the University of Cape Town (UCT).
‘Community-based events like this are crucial for promoting recovery and involve a partnership between those in recovery, their allies, grassroots organizations, and civic leaders.’
Over the past decade, Recovery Walk Cape Town has reached thousands with its hopeful message. Since its inception in 2015, the event has grown significantly, attracting over 800 attendees and being held at various locations across Cape Town, including the CBD, Joseph Stone Auditorium, Maynardville Park, and Mitchells Plain. During COVID-19, a recovery drive was also held.
The event is organised by a dedicated team of volunteers from diverse backgrounds, all committed to advocating for open recovery in South Africa.
‘I am a recovering addict. My journey was challenging but worthwhile,’ said Lora Fisher, a Mitchells Plain resident and RWCT committee member.
‘I share my story to encourage others to feel comfortable seeking recovery.’
‘Recovery requires courage, resilience, and support. We walk together to share our message and show people they are not alone,’ said Debbie Bub, an Occupational Therapist and RWCT Committee member for 10 years.
‘We create a space where individuals in recovery can find strength in each other’s stories, celebrate triumphs, and inspire others.’
The Recovery Walk Cape Town takes place on 28 September 2024, from 9:30am to 3pm, at Lentegeur Psychiatric Hospital.
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Picture: Facebook / Recovery Walk Cape Town
