Pubdate: Fri, 06 Jan 2006
Source: Langley Times (CN BC)
Copyright: 2006 BC Newspaper Group and New Media Development
Contact:  http://www.langleytimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1230
Author: Natasha Jones
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?241 (Methamphetamine - Canada)

RESEMBLING YELLOW OR OFF-WHITE ROCK SALT, CRYSTAL METH ALSO COMES IN POWDER
FORM

Know The Signs, Get Help

Resembling yellow or off-white rock salt, crystal meth also comes in
powder form. Cheap to buy, it acts on the central nervous system by
releasing large amounts of the neurotransmitter dopamine, giving an
instant rush.

Depending on the amount of the drug and the method it's administered,
the feeling of euphoria can last minutes or up to 12 hours. The side
effects can last much longer and can cause severe damage to the body.

Users can suffer tremors, mental confusion, hyperthermia (which can
trigger convulsions), insomnia, aggression, chest pain, and brain and
heart damage.

In the long term, users can quickly develop a strong psychological
dependence, suffer memory loss, paranoia, mood disturbances,
repetitive behavior, and the feeling that insects are crawling on the
skin. This leads to painful, open sores from constant picking. The
following can be accessed by an addict, friend or family member:

=95 School counsellor for an addict still in school. Check phone book
for numbers;

=95 Langley Family Services, which has an addictions worker,
534-7921;

=95 Family and Youth Services (FAYS) for people under 19,
534-2171;

=95 B.C. Alcohol and Drug Referral, 1-800-663-1441;

=95 Child Help Line, 1-800-668-6868;

=95 Narcotics Anonymous, 604 873-1018; and

=95 Narcanon Foundation (private) 604-873-1762.
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MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin