MORE people on the Northern Rivers are seeking help for cannabis addiction.

The North Coast Area Health Service said it treated 831 people in 2008 - up 21 per cent from the previous year.

Area health service drug and alcohol director John Leary attributed the rise to the introduction of new 'cannabis clinics' across the region.

Mostly provided in community health centres, the clinics remove the stigma associated with attending a dedicated drug and alcohol centre.

Users seeking help call a 1300 number and are then provided with an appointment at their nearest centre.

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