“Surely just once in a while doesn’t count as addiction, right?”
It’s a question we hear often, and it’s easy to understand why. The idea of a once-off experiment, or a bit of social use, feels harmless on the surface. But the reality is a bit more complex. Occasional drug use can walk a fine line, and knowing where that line lies is essential for protecting your health and future.
At her practice in Pretoria, situated on the premises of The Way Recovery Centre, Dr Jolandi Meyer works with individuals and families navigating these very concerns. Her experience in general practice and addiction treatment provides clarity in a space often filled with confusion and stigma.
So let’s talk about it. Is occasional drug use safe? Can it lead to addiction? When should you worry? And where can you find the right kind of help?
Defining “Occasional” Use
Let’s start with the term itself. Occasional drug use typically refers to infrequent, non-daily consumption of a substance, often in a social or recreational setting. It might be taking a stimulant during exams, using cannabis at a party, or having a line of cocaine at a club once every few weeks.
It sounds casual enough, but occasional use is not without risks. While not everyone who experiments with drugs becomes addicted, many people who struggle with addiction today started with occasional use. It’s the first step on a path that, for some, becomes dangerously slippery.
Addiction Is Not About Frequency
The biggest misunderstanding around addiction is thinking it’s all about how often you use a substance. But here’s the truth — addiction is not defined by frequency, it’s defined by impact and control.
You can use a drug once a month, but if:
You look forward to it excessively
You feel like you “need” it to enjoy yourself
You struggle to say no when the opportunity arises
It’s causing friction in your relationships or mental health
…then the occasional nature of use does not make it risk-free.
Addiction is less about how many times you use something and more about your relationship with the substance.
The Brain Chemistry of “Just Once”
Even with limited exposure, drugs can start affecting the brain’s reward system. Substances like cocaine, opioids, and methamphetamines flood the brain with dopamine — the feel-good chemical. This creates an intense rush of pleasure, which the brain quickly remembers.
With repeated, even occasional use, the brain starts adapting. It may reduce natural dopamine production, meaning everyday pleasures feel dull in comparison. That’s how cravings begin — not because you’re weak, but because your brain is doing what it’s been wired to do: seek pleasure and avoid pain.
And once that wiring is in place, occasional use can tip over into dependence faster than you think.
When Occasional Use Becomes Problematic
So, when does “just now and then” become a problem?
Here are a few signs to watch out for:
You start planning your social life around the substance
You feel anxious or moody when you’re not using
You lie to others (or yourself) about how often you use
You promise to cut back but struggle to follow through
You use it to escape stress, sadness, or boredom
These are not signs of failure, they’re signs that the drug may be playing a bigger role in your life than you intended.
Risk Factors That Make Occasional Use More Dangerous
Not everyone who uses drugs occasionally develops an addiction, but certain factors can increase the risk significantly. These include:
Family history of addiction
Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or ADHD
Childhood trauma or neglect
Peer pressure and social environments that normalise substance use
Using substances as a coping tool rather than for celebration or curiosity
If any of these sound familiar, even occasional use should be taken seriously.
Why Early Intervention Matters
At Dr Meyer’s practice, many patients seek help only when their substance use has already disrupted their work, relationships, or health. But the earlier the intervention, the better the outcome.
You don’t need to hit “rock bottom” to ask for support. In fact, seeking help at the “occasional use” stage can prevent you from ever reaching a crisis point. Prevention is just as important as recovery — and Dr Meyer is deeply committed to both.
The Role of The Way Recovery Centre
The Way Recovery Centre, located on the same premises as Dr Meyer’s medical practice, offers a supportive and medically informed environment for people at all stages of their recovery journey.
For someone who’s using occasionally but feels concerned, the centre provides:
Comprehensive assessments to understand your use and its impact
One-on-one therapy and counselling
Group support sessions that offer real-world connection and accountability
Education around triggers, cravings, and relapse prevention
A safe space to speak openly without judgement
Together, Dr Meyer and the team offer a holistic approach to substance use — one that includes physical health, mental wellness, and practical coping skills.
Can You Return to Occasional Use After Addiction?
This is a common question, especially for those who have gone through recovery. While every case is different, research shows that most people with a history of substance addiction do better with total abstinence rather than attempting “controlled” or occasional use.
Why? Because once those neural pathways are formed in the brain, returning to the substance – even once – can reignite cravings and the addiction cycle. It’s like trying to tame a lion you once barely escaped from.
That’s why aftercare, counselling, and lifestyle adjustments are essential. They help keep your life full, balanced, and satisfying without needing the substance to cope.
Talking to Someone About Their Occasional Use
What if you’re not the one using, but someone close to you is?
It can be tricky to approach the topic, especially if they insist it’s “no big deal.” Here’s how to handle it:
Choose a calm moment — avoid confrontations when either of you are emotional
Express concern, not judgment — use “I” statements like, “I’ve noticed…”
Share what you’ve observed and how it’s impacting your relationship
Offer to help them seek support or speak to a professional
Be prepared for denial — that’s common
Stay supportive, but set clear boundaries if needed
If you feel unsure, Dr Meyer can help guide these conversations and suggest the next steps.
For information on our 28-day in-patient programme with professional qualified medical detox from addiction and a platform of different approaches to addicts suffering from long-term gambling, alcohol and/or drug addiction, get in touch with Dr. Jolandi Meyer at The Way Recovery – Gambling, Drug & Alcohol Abuse Treatment Facility in Pretoria. A six-week outpatient programme with individual counselling, group therapy, and family support is also available from The Way Recovery.
The Way Recovery Halfway House in Pretoria offers a reintegration, aftercare programme to aid the addict who has finished a detox programme in adjusting to society for the recovering addict who still struggles.
The Power of Honest Self-Reflection
If you’re reading this and wondering, “Am I heading down the wrong path?”, give yourself credit. That question is powerful. It’s a sign of awareness — and awareness is the first step towards making empowered decisions.
Ask yourself:
Why do I use?
How do I feel when I’m not using?
Could I stop if I wanted to?
Is my use aligned with the life I want?
You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Whether you’re just curious or deeply concerned, reaching out to Dr Meyer for a confidential chat could be a game-changer.
What Help Looks Like
Help doesn’t always mean rehab. Sometimes, it’s:
A one-off session to understand your risk
A few counselling sessions to build coping skills
Joining a support group to feel less alone
Making a lifestyle change with medical guidance
Learning to set healthier emotional boundaries
At Dr Meyer’s practice, the help is flexible, compassionate, and practical — designed to meet you where you are and guide you forward.
Occasional drug use may not always equal addiction, but that doesn’t mean it’s harmless. The line between safe and risky is thinner than most people think. And once that line is crossed, returning to balance becomes much harder.
Dr Jolandi Meyer and the team at The Way Recovery Centre are here to walk that journey with you. Whether you’re taking the first step or need help finding your footing again, you’re not alone.
Common Ailments Treated by Dr. Jolandi Meyer
Dr. Jolandi Meyer’s expertise and comprehensive treatment options make her an exceptional General Practitioner for addressing all ailments. She provides personalised care, empowering patients to achieve optimal health. Her compassionate approach ensures patients receive the highest quality treatment. Her practice is located in Garsfontein, Pretoria on the same premises as The Way Recovery Centre.
With her support and guidance, patients can embark on a journey towards improved well-being and a healthier, happier life.