Chapters in Books (DSS)

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Factors leading to drug and alcohol use and abuse
(University of Namibia, 2008) Maree, Maretha
The abuse of alcohol and drugs can have a serious impact on individuals, families and communities, as well as organizations where people work. There are a variety of socio-economic, psychological and structural factors that can lead to the use or abuse of alcohol and drugs. Recognizing the high rates of alcohol and drug use among Namibians nationally and its potential effects on the workforce, the Namdeb Diamond Corporation (Namdeb) has recently initiated a comprehensive alcohol and drug testing policy, and has subsequently seen a steady decrease in the percentage of workers testing positive. I n further efforts to address substance use and abuse, Namdeb commissioned the Department of Human Sciences at the University of Namibia (UNAM) to undertake a comprehensive, mixed-methods investigation into the factors leading to drug and alcohol use and abuse among its employees. As Oranjemund is currently a remote company town, this research project was expanded to include investigating the factors leading to drug and alcohol use among Namdeb employees and their families, the effects of drug and alcohol use on Namdeb workers, and to evaluate current efforts addressing alcohol and drug use in Oranjemund.