CRYSTAL METH USE CROSSES AGE BARRIERS, SAYS COUNSELLOR

SACPA To Discuss Problem

Lethbridge is not immune to the growing problem of crystal meth use
and it's not just teenagers who are discovering the highly addictive
drug these days.

Gwen Reimer, an addictions counsellor with AADAC in Lethbridge, will
speak at a public forum Thursday about the realities of crystal meth
- -- its effects on users, its addictive properties and treatment programs.

"It used to be a drug used mainly by people in their late teens and
early 20s," Reimer said. "It used to be a club drug but now there are
older people using it, too."

People have been drawn to crystal meth for a few reasons, Reimer
said. It produces a longer-lasting high than cocaine and is less
expensive. A crystal meth high produces feelings of joy, a sense of
power, elevated self-esteem, increased energy and longer periods of
wakefulness.

"That's why we see some students using it," she said.

While that may sound attractive, the price one pays for a crystal
meth high is devastating. So powerful is the effect, users are often
addicted the first time they try it. It leaves a residue on teeth
that can rot them down to stumps in as little as three months. It
causes liver and kidney damage.

Crystal meth causes irreversible brain damage. The toxic chemicals in
the poisonous cocktail used to create crystal meth build up in the
body's tissues. Users get overwhelming sensations of crawling skin
and will scratch themselves raw. Skin lesions form all over the body
from the crystaline residue of the drug making its way to the skin.

Despite the horror stories, Reimer said AADAC's experience indicates
scare tactics aren't as effective at deterring possible users as
something else is -- making sure children and teens have support,
encouragement and love in their lives.

For those at risk, treatment protocols have been specifically
designed for stimulant drugs. Reimer will provide details Thursday.

"There are some other things we're doing in the community to reach
students, as well," Reimer said.

"The third week in November is National Addictions Awareness Week and
we're doing a presentation at the Public Library Monday the 21st at 7
p.m. Two counsellors have asked us to come and speak to the students
at Winston Churchill high school and we'll also be at Coalhurst high
school on Nov. 9."

The provincial government appointed a crystal meth task force last
week, to be headed by Colleen Klein and devoted to assessing the
scope of the problem and coming up with recommendations for a
treatment protocol in Alberta.

Anyone with concerns about someone they know who may be on crystal
meth can call AADAC, 381-5183, or toll-free outside Lethbridge, 1-866-332-2322.

Organizers of Southern Alberta Council on Public Affairs are hoping
to draw students and others to Thursday's presentation. Reimer will
speak at noon at Sven Ericksen's Family Restaurant, 1715 Mayor
Magrath Dr. Cost is $8 and includes lunch. Everyone is welcome.