Pubdate: Wed, 02 Nov 2005
Source: Lethbridge Herald (CN AB)
Copyright: 2005 The Lethbridge Herald
Contact:  http://www.mysouthernalberta.com/leth/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/239
Author: Sherri Gallant

CRYSTAL METH USE CROSSES AGE BARRIERS, SAYS COUNSELLOR

SACPA To Discuss Problem

Lethbridge is not immune to the growing problem of crystal meth use 
and it's not just teenagers who are discovering the highly addictive 
drug these days.

Gwen Reimer, an addictions counsellor with AADAC in Lethbridge, will 
speak at a public forum Thursday about the realities of crystal meth 
- -- its effects on users, its addictive properties and treatment programs.

"It used to be a drug used mainly by people in their late teens and 
early 20s," Reimer said. "It used to be a club drug but now there are 
older people using it, too."

People have been drawn to crystal meth for a few reasons, Reimer 
said. It produces a longer-lasting high than cocaine and is less 
expensive. A crystal meth high produces feelings of joy, a sense of 
power, elevated self-esteem, increased energy and longer periods of 
wakefulness.

"That's why we see some students using it," she said.

While that may sound attractive, the price one pays for a crystal 
meth high is devastating. So powerful is the effect, users are often 
addicted the first time they try it. It leaves a residue on teeth 
that can rot them down to stumps in as little as three months. It 
causes liver and kidney damage.

Crystal meth causes irreversible brain damage. The toxic chemicals in 
the poisonous cocktail used to create crystal meth build up in the 
body's tissues. Users get overwhelming sensations of crawling skin 
and will scratch themselves raw. Skin lesions form all over the body 
from the crystaline residue of the drug making its way to the skin.

Despite the horror stories, Reimer said AADAC's experience indicates 
scare tactics aren't as effective at deterring possible users as 
something else is -- making sure children and teens have support, 
encouragement and love in their lives.

For those at risk, treatment protocols have been specifically 
designed for stimulant drugs. Reimer will provide details Thursday.

"There are some other things we're doing in the community to reach 
students, as well," Reimer said.

"The third week in November is National Addictions Awareness Week and 
we're doing a presentation at the Public Library Monday the 21st at 7 
p.m. Two counsellors have asked us to come and speak to the students 
at Winston Churchill high school and we'll also be at Coalhurst high 
school on Nov. 9."

The provincial government appointed a crystal meth task force last 
week, to be headed by Colleen Klein and devoted to assessing the 
scope of the problem and coming up with recommendations for a 
treatment protocol in Alberta.

Anyone with concerns about someone they know who may be on crystal 
meth can call AADAC, 381-5183, or toll-free outside Lethbridge, 1-866-332-2322.

Organizers of Southern Alberta Council on Public Affairs are hoping 
to draw students and others to Thursday's presentation. Reimer will 
speak at noon at Sven Ericksen's Family Restaurant, 1715 Mayor 
Magrath Dr. Cost is $8 and includes lunch. Everyone is welcome.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman