FHA UNVEILS NEW METH MANUAL

A new tool has been deployed in the battle against crystal
methamphetamine use.

The Fraser Health Authority (FHA) has released a comprehensive 156-page
manual titled "A Community Guide: Strategies and Interventions for Dealing
with Crystal Methamphetamine (Meth) and Other Emerging Drug Trends."

It can be downloaded from the FHA web site at
http://www.fraserhealth.ca/HealthInfo/MentalHealth/AddictionServices.

"Communities, individuals and organizations are united in a common
battle to halt its spread," said FHA addictions leader Dr. Akbar Bayanzadeh.

"And we know that solid information and workable strategies will be
critical success factors."

The guide provides information about programs and strategies to
counter meth use.

It contains sections ranging from the effects and dangers of meth to
withdrawal symptoms to treatment recommendations.

The document also contains numerous web links to other resources on
the Internet.

It also examines the extent of the meth problem within the FHA.

Among adults, crystal meth was the fourth drug of choice behind
alcohol, marijuana and cocaine, the guide says.

Among youths, meth is third behind marijuana and alcohol. The average
age they began using meth was between 14 and 15 years old.

"This guide is a result of extensive literature reviews and interviews
with key experts - locally, nationally and internationally who
provided invaluable insights," said Sherry Mumford, chair of the
Crystal Meth Task Group.