Question 1

Is Narconon legitimate?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Narconon Africa is a registered drug rehabilitation facility operating legally in South Africa. The program has been helping individuals overcome addiction for decades, with graduates achieving lasting recovery without substitute drugs. While Narconon's methods differ from traditional medical model programs, thousands of families have chosen this approach and achieved successful outcomes. The program is transparent about its methodology, costs, and philosophy.

Question 2

What is the connection between Narconon and Scientology?

Accepted Answer

Narconon was founded by Scientologists and uses some principles developed by L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology. However, Narconon is a secular drug rehabilitation program—not a religious program. Participants are not required to become Scientologists, study Scientology religious materials, or participate in any religious practices. The program focuses exclusively on addiction recovery using drug-free methods.

Question 3

What makes Narconon different from other rehabs?

Accepted Answer

Narconon's approach is fundamentally different in three ways: (1) Completely drug-free—no methadone, Suboxone, or psychiatric medications during or after treatment. (2) Addresses root causes—the program identifies and resolves the underlying reasons someone turned to drugs, not just managing symptoms. (3) Life skills focus—graduates learn practical communication, problem-solving, and responsibility skills that prevent relapse.

Question 4

What is Narconon's success rate?

Accepted Answer

Narconon reports that graduates who complete the full program have significantly higher long-term sobriety rates compared to traditional programs. However, success rates vary based on how they're measured. What's undeniable: thousands of families have chosen Narconon, and many graduates remain sober years later without substitute drugs.

Question 5

Why choose drug-free treatment instead of medication-assisted treatment (MAT)?

Accepted Answer

Drug-free treatment offers genuine freedom from all substances, not just trading one drug for another. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) uses drugs like methadone, Suboxone, or buprenorphine to manage withdrawal and cravings—but these are also addictive opioids. Drug-free treatment addresses the root causes of addiction and builds life skills, allowing graduates to live without any chemical dependency.

Question 6

Is drug-free withdrawal safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when properly supervised. Narconon's drug-free withdrawal process uses nutritional support, vitamins, and caring staff assistance—not substitute drugs. Withdrawal is monitored 24/7 to ensure safety and comfort. While withdrawal is challenging, thousands have completed it successfully without medications.

Question 7

What if I've been told I need methadone or Suboxone to get off heroin/fentanyl?

Accepted Answer

Many traditional programs claim substitute drugs are necessary for opioid addiction—but this isn't true. Thousands of people have successfully withdrawn from heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioids without methadone or Suboxone through Narconon's drug-free approach. The program addresses why you turned to opioids in the first place and builds skills to handle life without any substances.

Question 8

Does drug-free treatment work for all types of addiction?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Narconon's drug-free approach has successfully helped people overcome addiction to heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine (tik), alcohol, prescription opioids, benzodiazepines, cannabis, and polysubstance abuse. The program addresses addiction at its root—the reasons someone turned to drugs—rather than focusing on the specific substance.

Question 9

Why choose South Africa for addiction treatment?

Accepted Answer

South Africa offers world-class addiction treatment at 60-70% lower cost than US, UK, or European programs. Narconon Africa provides the same comprehensive program available internationally, but at a fraction of the price. Additional benefits include beautiful setting in the Magaliesberg Mountains, removal from old environments and triggers, English-speaking staff, no waiting lists, and privacy for high-profile individuals.

Question 10

How much does Narconon Africa cost compared to programs in the US/UK/EU?

Accepted Answer

Narconon Africa costs approximately R180,000-R250,000 (USD $10,000-$14,000) for the full 3-6 month program. Comparable programs in the United States cost $30,000-$60,000+ for the same duration. UK and European programs range from £20,000-£40,000+. By choosing South Africa, international clients save $15,000-$45,000 while receiving the same quality care.

Question 11

Is it safe for international clients to travel to South Africa for treatment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Narconon Africa is located in a secure, peaceful area in the Magaliesberg Mountains (North-West Province), far from urban crime concerns. The facility provides safe, comfortable accommodation with 24/7 staff supervision. Transportation from Johannesburg airport to the facility is arranged for international clients.

Question 12

How do I get to Narconon Africa from overseas?

Accepted Answer

International clients fly into O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. From there, Narconon Africa arranges ground transportation (approximately 90 minutes) to the facility in the Magaliesberg Mountains. The facility assists with travel planning and can provide visa invitation letters if needed.

Question 13

How long is the Narconon program?

Accepted Answer

The Narconon program typically takes 3-6 months to complete, depending on individual progress. Unlike 28-day programs that rush through treatment, Narconon allows each person to master each phase before moving forward. The program includes: (1) Drug-free withdrawal (1-2 weeks). (2) New Life Detoxification (sauna program, 2-4 weeks). (3) Life skills courses (2-4 months).

Question 14

What happens during the Narconon program?

Accepted Answer

The Narconon program has three main phases: Phase 1: Drug-Free Withdrawal with nutritional support and vitamins. Phase 2: New Life Detoxification using sauna-based program to eliminate drug residues. Phase 3: Life Skills Courses including TRs (Training Routines), Objectives Course, Learning How to Learn, Communication and Perception Course, Ups and Downs in Life Course, Personal Values and Integrity Course, Changing Conditions in Life Course, and The Way to Happiness Course.

Question 15

Can I visit my family member during the program?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but visits are scheduled strategically to support recovery. During the initial withdrawal and detoxification phases (first 3-4 weeks), contact is limited to allow the person to focus fully on getting clean and stable. After that, family visits and phone calls are encouraged. The program also includes family education to help loved ones understand addiction and how to support lasting recovery.

Question 16

What if my loved one doesn't want to go to rehab?

Accepted Answer

Many people enter treatment reluctantly—and still achieve lasting recovery. Narconon's approach often resonates with people who've rejected traditional programs because it doesn't label them as having an incurable disease or require lifelong medication. The program's focus on personal responsibility and capability appeals to people who want genuine solutions.

Question 17

Does insurance cover Narconon Africa?

Accepted Answer

Some international insurance plans may cover addiction treatment abroad, but this varies by policy. Narconon Africa can provide detailed invoices and documentation for insurance claims. Many South African medical aids do not cover private rehabilitation, but some offer partial reimbursement. Payment plans are available for South African families.

Question 18

What should I bring to Narconon Africa?

Accepted Answer

Bring comfortable clothing (casual, modest), toiletries, any prescription medications (which will be managed by staff), and personal items that provide comfort (photos, books). The facility provides accommodation, meals, linens, and all program materials. Narconon staff will provide a detailed packing list upon admission.

Question 19

Can I use my phone during the program?

Accepted Answer

Phone use is limited during the initial phases to help you focus on recovery without outside distractions. After the withdrawal and detoxification phases (first 3-4 weeks), phone privileges increase. This structure helps break the connection to old environments, people, and triggers that contributed to addiction.

Question 20

What happens after I complete the Narconon program?

Accepted Answer

Narconon provides aftercare support to help graduates maintain sobriety. This includes: (1) Ongoing communication with program staff. (2) Referrals to local support resources. (3) Guidance for handling challenges that arise. (4) Alumni network for peer support. Unlike programs that require lifelong attendance at meetings or ongoing medication, Narconon graduates leave with the skills and capability to live independently.

Question 21

How do I know if my loved one needs professional treatment?

Accepted Answer

Signs that professional treatment is needed include: inability to stop using despite negative consequences, withdrawal symptoms when not using, neglecting responsibilities, lying about drug use, financial problems, legal issues, health deterioration, and failed attempts to quit on their own. If addiction is affecting work, relationships, or health, professional treatment is necessary.

Question 22

What if my loved one has relapsed before?

Accepted Answer

Previous relapses don't mean recovery is impossible—they often mean the previous treatment didn't address root causes. Narconon's approach differs from traditional programs by identifying why someone turned to drugs and building skills to handle life without substances. Many Narconon graduates had failed multiple traditional programs before finding lasting success with the drug-free approach.

Question 23

How can I support my loved one's recovery?

Accepted Answer

Support recovery by: (1) Educating yourself about addiction. (2) Setting firm boundaries and stopping enabling behaviors. (3) Participating in family education programs. (4) Avoiding judgment while maintaining accountability. (5) Celebrating progress and milestones. (6) Being patient—recovery takes time. Narconon Africa includes family education to help loved ones provide effective support.

Question 24

What if we can't afford treatment?

Accepted Answer

Narconon Africa offers payment plans for South African families. The program's cost (R180,000-R250,000) is significantly lower than international programs, making it accessible to more families. Some families fundraise, use savings, or seek loans for treatment—viewing it as an investment in their loved one's life. The cost of not getting treatment (legal fees, medical bills, lost productivity) often exceeds the cost of quality rehabilitation.

Question 25

How quickly can someone start the program?

Accepted Answer

Narconon Africa can often admit clients within days of initial contact. Unlike programs with long waiting lists, immediate admission is usually available. The intake process includes a phone assessment, medical screening, and arrangement of transportation. For international clients, the facility assists with travel planning and visa documentation. When someone is ready for help, quick admission is crucial.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Drug-Free Treatment

Choosing South Africa

Program Details

Practical Questions

For Families

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