FAQ

* The term he or his, in the text below refers to both genders (him/her or he/she).

How do I, know if I or someone I know has an addiction problem?

Addiction, whether it is to alcohol, drug, medication or gambling, is a progressive disease. It usually start with occasional use, but over time the person builds up a tolerance for the drug or activity and the use escalates until it is no longer used, but abused. The person is no longer in control. The abuse increases, and addiction sets in. The person might try to stop on his own to proof to himself and others that he is in control, but fails continuously. Because the person is addicted, he will experience withdrawal symptoms when he tries to stop and that is usually the reason why most people who try to stop on their own falls back quite soon.

A person is addicted when his life is negatively affected either in one or all of the following aspects; emotional functioning, physical functioning, social functioning and spiritually. Addiction does not only affect the individual, but also the people around them, such as family, friends, and colleagues.

What do I do when someone I know has an alcohol, drug or gambling problem?

Click here to view intervention guidelines.

What do I do when I realize that I have an alcohol, drug or gambling problem?

When you admit to yourself that you have an alcohol, drug or gambling problem, you have taken the first step towards recovery. The next step is to tell someone you trust, and who will support you, that you have a problem and that you are willing to accept help. The third step is to make contact with a professional treatment centre, such as Elim Clinic, and secure a booking. You will then be provided with the necessary information regarding admission and treatment.

Why go to a professional treatment centre, otherwise known as ‘rehab’ ?

Sometimes people attempt to stop using alcohol, drugs or medication without medical supervision or assistance. The risk is extremely high, and going ‘cold turkey’ can actually cause physical injury of or death. At Elim Clinic we offer treatment on all levels of functioning. Not only will the person be assisted with detoxification, but the person will also receive treatment in the form of group therapy, individual therapy, spiritual counseling, and skills training.

What is the duration of treatment?

Click here to view Treatment Programmes.

What is the cost of in-patient treatment?

Treatment rates are being adjusted on a yearly basis. Phone or email us at admission@elimclin.co.za or info@elimclin.co.za for the latest treatment rates. Most medical aids pay for professional addiction treatment.

What is the aim of treatment at Elim Clinic?

  • To enable the person to function free of addiction
  • To equip the person, through therapy and psycho-social skills training, to accept responsibility for personal recovery
  • Focus on relapse prevention, and maintenance of the recovery process
  • Improvement in all aspects of life – emotional, physical, social and spiritual
  • Continuous support in the form of Aftercare group sessions, every Wednesday evening at 6:15pm at Elim Clinic

What is the age of people who receive treatment at Elim Clinic?

We offer treatment to anyone form the age of 18 years, depending on the person’s physical stability and ability to function without assistance.

Who do I have to inform when I decide to follow a professional treatment program?

It is your choice. You decide who you want to inform and who not. The staff will respect your privacy and maintain confidentiality at all times. Often when a person is referred by his employer, the employer will know about the admission.

May I receive visitors when I am at Elim Clinic?

Yes, it is encouraged that the significant people in your life are involved with your recovery process and visit you when they can. Due to the nature of the withdrawal and detoxification process, drug patients receive visitors from the 8th day of treatment.


Visiting hours for all patients are as follows:
Monday and Tuesday 18:00 to 20:00
Thursday and Friday 18:00 to 20:00
Saturday and Sunday 10:00 to 17:00
Public Holidays – as arranged, information will be communicated well in advance.

What happens after treatment?

Treatment is the first phase of the recovery process. During treatment you are equipped with the necessary knowledge, and life skills to enable you to change your life style. It remains your responsibility to maintain your recovery, to attend aftercare support group meetings and create your own support network within your living and working environment.

What does it look like at Elim Clinic?

The aim is to create a safe and tranquil environment conducive to healing. The Clinic is situated next to the Kempton Park golf course. It is surrounded by lush gardens, grass and trees, creating a peaceful and tranquil environment. There is a chapel on the premises, and Sunday evening service is open to all. The Clinic itself is well maintained, with comfortable rooms, and a gym. The setup can be described as a friendly and non-threatening environment. Meals are served three times a day in the dining room. Tea and coffee is provided three times a day in the relaxation area.

Will I be assisted with detoxification?

Yes, detoxification is the first step of the treatment process and lasts, depending on your drug of abuse, 5 days to 3 weeks. You will receive the appropriate medication during your detoxification period; professional medical staff will assist you throughout your treatment period

How secure is the Clinic and the premises?

Security is high priority at Elim Clinic. There is 24 hours access control at the gate, an electric fence surrounding the premises.

Is it allowed to use addictive substance on the premises?

No, there is zero tolerance in terms of the use of any addictive substance on the premises. For this reason random drug and alcohol testing is done.

May I receive visitors when I am at Elim Clinic?

Yes, it is encouraged that the significant people in your life are involved with your recovery process and visit you when they can. Due to the withdrawal and detoxification process, patients may receive visitors from the 8th day of treatment.
Visiting hours for all patients are as follows:
Monday and Tuesday 18:00 to 20:00
Thursday and Friday 18:00 to 20:00
Saturday and Sunday 10:00 to 17:00
Public Holidays – as arranged, information will be communicated well in advance