A survey about methamphetamine use in Melbourne’s north shows people do not understand why young people are favouring a drug known to cause aggressive behaviour.
The survey, by Glenroy-based Youth Projects, is the first to examine the most pressing issues and needs of the community caused by the rapid rise in methamphetamine use, particularly “ice”, in the north.
Youth Projects alcohol and drugs manager Richard Michell said the survey findings showed people needed better advice to recognise methamphetamine use and its symptoms.
“We know that workers and individuals from many areas agree that methamphetamine use has increased in many communities, but there is confusion about how to get help and how to educate young people about the drugs,” Mr Michell said.
“There is fear methamphetamine is being normalised due to its increased uptake, without people understanding the long-term consequences and difficulties.
“While the harmful effects of methamphetamines and other substances are well known, more needs to be done to ensure the community is better educated.”
Of 438 clients who accessed Youth Projects’ integrated drug and alcohol counselling outreach service in 2012-13,
39.50 per cent reported methamphetamines, in particular ice, as their drug of choice.
More than 70 per cent of users were aged between 15 and 29.
Mr Michell said Youth Projects has noticed methamphetamine use increase significantly in the north, with many requests for services coming through forensic services, such as courts and police.
He said internal data showed an increase in both adult and youth service requests for support and counselling by people using methamphetamines.
He said Youth Projects welcomed the Victorian government’s budget allocation to support responses to methamphetamine. The agency would seek a grant to roll out prevention and education strategies, as well as provide co-ordinated clinical responses.
