Pubdate: Mon, 21 Nov 2005
Source: Edson Leader (CN AB)
Copyright: 2005 Edson Leader
Contact:  http://www.edsonleader.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/780
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?241 (Methamphetamine - Canada)

BREAKING ADDICTIONS

Let's admit it -- everyone has a weakness. It could be a cup of coffee in 
the morning or that piece of chocolate that must melt in your mouth.

But what if that weakness took control of your life? Could you overcome it 
or would you become an addict?

It's National Addictions Awareness Week, a time to consider beating that 
craving for a smoke or helping someone overcome their lock on drugs.

To understand an addict's mind, think of what you crave the most and how 
terrible it would be if these thoughts occupied your life.

Addictions harm not only those who severely feel they need a drink or need 
to put more than one coin in a slot machine. They impact family, friends 
and employers.

Alcoholism is heavily connected to family violence. Cigarettes cause 
cancer. Gambling places families in bankruptcy. Drugs lead to theft and 
higher crime rates in communities.

The Edson Leader has focused on only one type of addiction in this issue of 
the paper -- crystal meth. Four Edsonites were willing to tell their 
stories to students and the public, hoping to prevent more addicts in the 
future.

They have asked to remain anonymous because they now understand how this 
drug wreaked havoc on their lives and others.

Readers should make a point to follow the six-part series of a meth addict 
that begins in this issue. The Edson and District Drug Action Coalition 
(EDDAC) made great efforts to find a local resident, who is suffering the 
consequences of his actions behind bars, to tell his story honestly and 
frankly. EDDAC also recruited a writer who was willing to piece together 
the details and make the articles interesting for our readers.

Don't forget to read a poem on the letters page (Page A7) that drives home 
the point on how meth shatters lives.

As much as crystal meth has taken hold of this community, Edsonites 
shouldn't forget that there are endless types of addictions.

Take notice of those around you who appear to go beyond that simple 
craving. As difficult as it may be, ask them to seek help or contact the 
Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission (AADAC) in the Edson Provincial 
Building for advice and resources.

If you realize you are an addict, consider how this obsession is affecting 
yourself and others. AADAC is willing to provide confidential counselling 
to help Edsonites beat their addictions.

For some, quitting smoking or drinking is simple. For others, it's a 
struggle that they wrestle with for a majority of their lives. Let's break 
the cycle of addiction.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom