GENERAL HEALTH Young adults are currently being targeted by organised crime groups who position ice as a party drug and tempt young users with free ‘hook ups’. After a taste, young people are finding that the next supply is more expensive and that their self-control is now compromised – and so the cycle begins. With children as young as 10 seeking withdrawal treatment and help for ice-related mental illnesses in Ballarat, New South Wales, as reported in June 2014, it appears that primary school is not too early for prevention strategies. Prominent youth outreach worker and community activist Les Twentyman AO urged in June 2014 for principals to hold off suspending and expelling students who are found to be using ice, saying this will only isolate young users and perpetuate anti-social behaviour. Some desperate schools in Victoria have even considered drug-testing students as a way to identify those at risk, but the idea was knocked back by State Government and the Youth Support Advocacy Service. Since ice has already seeped into schools and young communities, particularly in disadvantaged rural areas, education and real case studies could help deter primary and secondary school children from trying or using the drug. Where to from here? Ice and all forms of methamphetamine are inarguably dangerous for an individual’s health, family, community and their potential. While the experience differs for each user, it does not discriminate in the destruction of lives. If you are experiencing or witnessing the effects of ice, or have any suspicion of ice-related activity in your area, visit www.drugs.health.gov.au, www.dfds.org.au or call your local police station. 30 Pindara Magazine 2015\2016
Pindara Private Hospital Magazine - Issue Six
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