Gauteng Warns of Rising Drug-Linked Psychosis Among Youth

The department explained that substance-induced psychosis occurs when alcohol or drugs interfere with normal brain function, causing a person to lose touch with reality.

The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has raised concerns over the growing impact of substance abuse on mental health, warning that healthcare facilities are seeing an increasing number of young people diagnosed with drug-induced psychosis.

According to the department, many patients receiving treatment for psychosis also have a history of substance abuse. Health professionals say the rising number of substance-induced psychotic disorders highlights the urgent need for early intervention, treatment and greater public awareness.

Drug use linked to serious mental health conditions

The department explained that substance-induced psychosis occurs when alcohol or drugs interfere with normal brain function, causing a person to lose touch with reality. During an episode, individuals may hear voices, see things that are not present, develop false beliefs, experience disorganised thinking or display unusual behaviour. While some patients recover once their substance use is treated, others may continue experiencing psychotic symptoms long after the drugs have left their bodies. In some cases, the condition can develop into long-term psychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia.

The department said the risk is influenced by several factors, including early drug use, family history of mental illness, previous trauma, severe stress and certain medical conditions. Cannabis, methamphetamine, cocaine, alcohol and other illicit drugs have all been linked to a higher risk of psychosis.

Communities encouraged to seek help early

The Gauteng Department of Health urged families and communities to recognise the early warning signs of psychosis, which include hearing or seeing things that others do not, holding false beliefs, confused thinking, withdrawing from social activities, neglecting personal hygiene and sudden changes in behaviour, sleep or daily functioning.

The department noted that psychosis most commonly develops during late adolescence and early adulthood, making young people particularly vulnerable to substance-related mental health conditions. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve recovery and reduce the risk of long-term illness. Public healthcare facilities across Gauteng continue to provide mental health services that include medical treatment, psychological support, substance abuse assessment and referrals to rehabilitation programmes where necessary.

The department has encouraged anyone experiencing symptoms of psychosis or struggling with substance abuse to seek professional help at their nearest clinic, community health centre or hospital. It also called on communities to continue discussing the link between substance abuse and mental health following South Africa's recent Drug Awareness Week, observed from 24 to 28 June.