Pubdate: Thu, 23 Nov 2006
Source: Richmond Review, The (CN BC)
Copyright: 2006 Richmond Public Library
Contact:  http://www.richmondreview.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/704
Author: Martin Van Den Hemel
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/meth.htm (Methamphetamine)

ARE YOU ADDICTED TO CRYSTAL METH? TRYING THE DRUG IS  AKIN
TO RUSSIAN ROULETTE

While crystal meth can be deadly addictive for many,  not everyone who
uses the drug will become helplessly  hooked.

And for those people who are uncertain if they've  become addicted,
Jill Craven of Richmond Addiction  Services says there are a few
questions they should ask  themselves.

How often do you think about the drug?

Can you cut down on your use, or has it gradually
increased?

Are you irritable when you don't use it?

Can you hang around people who don't use it?

Craven said crystal meth is not unlike crack cocaine  and heroin in
that the messages surrounding those drugs  was that once you tried it,
you would become highly  addicted.

That's true in many cases, but not all, she said.

"People can use it and not fall into it in that way,"  she said. "You
never know if you're one of the people  where it takes over your life
immediately. It's like  Russian roulette."

Those who are consumed with thoughts of using the drug,  are finding
their use increasing, can't cut down on  using crystal meth and are
seeing it impact the  relationships in their lives are likely addicted.

And in that case, they should seek free help at  Richmond Addiction
Services.

Craven said the three Cs of addiction apply when  looking at drug use
of all sorts.

Tell-tale signs are compulsive behaviour, where drug  use is an
all-consuming thought, lack of control, in  which one can't cut down
on using the drug, and  negative consequences, such as poor
performance at work  and school and troubles with relationships with
family  and friends.

Over and under sleeping and negative health  consequences are also
signs.

By seeking professional help, which is free, locals  with drug
problems can obtain counseling which includes  one-on-one sessions and
some group settings.

There's a detoxification service available, which helps  manage the
pains of withdrawal through a holistic  approach that includes
acupuncture, better nutrition  and even yoga.
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