Pubdate: Thu, 23 Aug 2001
Source: The Outlook (CN BC)
Copyright: 2001 The Outlook
Contact:  http://www.northshoreoutlook.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1433
Author: Justin Beddall
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/meth.htm (Methamphetamine)

THE CRYSTAL METHOD

Crystal meth is the latest designer drug of choice for North Shore teens. 
"The last couple of years it has increased in popularity," said Donna Baird 
of West Van's Seaview Alcohol & Drug Services Society. "It's highly addictive."

In fact, according to Seaview counselor Keri-Lyn Bjornson, the drug 
produces such a euphoric high that first-time users can become addicted.

"I think it's replaced the crack-cocaine frenzy," said Bjornson, noting 
drugs are cyclical, and crystal meth appears to be the latest drug fad." 
And it's very available," added Bjornson, who has several clients currently 
battling addiction to the drug.

Crystal meth, a methamphetamine, costs $20 a dose. A white-coloured 
crystallized powder, the drug is commonly smoked. Users also inject and 
snort the drug.

The consequences of using the drug are severe. "Kids end up on the street 
very quickly," Baird said.

Baird, formally a drug counselor in the U.S., said crystal meth was popular 
among teens in the States in the 1990s.

"We're usually about 10 years behind the States," she said of drug fads in 
Canada.
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