Pubdate: Sun, 11 Sep 2005
Source: Quesnel Cariboo Observer (CN BC)
Copyright: 2005 Quesnel Cariboo Observer
Contact:  http://www.quesnelobserver.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1260
Author: Joyanne Pursaga
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/meth.htm (Methamphetamine)

FORUM TO TACKLE CRYSTAL METH ISSUE

Crystal meth use across B.C. has yet to reach its peak, said an addictions 
counsellor set to tackle the issue.

Wayne Lucier, a life skills and addictions counsellor for the 
Cariboo-Chilcotin Metis Association, says working with youth addicted to 
the cheap drug convinced him we need to take action now.

He plans to share his message against meth in Quesnel during a free 
information session, "The Ugly Truths of Crystal Meth" on Sept. 12 at 6:30 p.m.

"It's a relatively new drug and I don't think people realize how hard it's 
going to hit B.C.," said Lucier. "We're only seeing the start of it now."

The percentage of admissions to addictions services resulting from meth use 
jumped from four to 11 per cent between 1999 and 2002, according to the 
B.C. government report Meth and other Amphetamines: An Integrated B.C. 
Strategy.

And many more drug users may be taking some crystal meth without realizing, 
said Lucier.

"Everything is getting laced with crystal meth," he said. "And because it's 
so addictive, people are getting hooked on drugs really fast."

Methamphetamine, commonly known as crystal meth, is a stimulant that 
chemically alters the parts of the brain that control emotions and hunger.

People who get high on the drug often become agitated, moody and aggressive.

"I believe a lot of the violence and vandalism are triggered by crystal 
meth," said Lucier.

He says one $10-hit of the drug can keep a user high for up to eight hours, 
making the drug tempting and accessible.

And it can be made from readily available household products.

"You can buy the ingredients anywhere from any hardware store," said Lucier.

But the health impact of the drug will force society to pay a huge price, 
says Lucier.

The highly toxic substance consists of several different poisons from 
household cleaning products.

Its long-term use may cause blurred vision, dizziness, loss of 
co-ordination, schizophrenia, psychosis, organ failure, heart disease or death.

The Crystal Meth and other Amphetamines report found substance abuse cost 
B.C. about 2.3 billion in 1992 in health and social costs.

"Hopefully, the more people find out about this, the more they'll stay away 
from it," said Lucier. "It's a scary trend."

Lucier's session is not intended for children, due to graphic content of 
videos depicting meth use and its consequences.

For more information, call 992-9722.

The session is sponsored by the North Cariboo Metis Association and will be 
held at 331-A St. Laurent Ave.
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MAP posted-by: Elizabeth Wehrman