METHAMPHETAMINE USE GROWING IN PROVINCE

Addictions to methamphetamine (crystal meth) turn families upside down with
horrendous conflict and cost, experts say.

More than 300 people took part in the Alberta Workshop on Methamphetamine:
An Environmental Scan this week in Red Deer.

It's a growing problem across the province, particularly in Edmonton and
northern regions.

Heather Forsyth, Alberta's solicitor general, said frontline people have
been reporting a rapid increase in the use and production of meth.

But actual numbers are hard to pin down, she said.

Forsyth said meth production, by its nature, takes place out of sight,
inside houses, hotel rooms and vehicles.

She hoped the workshop would help answer questions like who is making meth
and where, and who is the typical user and why do they use it.

"We're determined to stay ahead of the problem and knowing how Albertans
feel will be helpful to everyone involved in the fight against the use of
this devastating substance," she said.

A survey by the Canadian Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use shows
meth is more harmful than alcohol and other illicit drugs.

Of those surveyed, 25 per cent also say meth is easy to obtain in their
community.

Gord and Karin Daniher of Edmonton know firsthand the pain meth addiction
can wield in a family.

Their daughter, just 16, has been addicted for the past three years.

"You have to be wary, and watch for the changes youngsters exhibit," Gord
told reporters. "It's out there, and it's a very deadly drug."

The Danihers say they've felt isolated through the process in finding help
for their daughter.

"Most family and friends don't understand it, but it's the reality of our
lives," said Karin.

Gord said there needs to be more homeless shelters for addicts and more
long-term treatment programs that addicts can't walk away from.

That's the snag, however, because treatment programs are voluntary in
nature.

"If an addict can walk away, they will," he said, adding that a ranch-type
setting for treatment with lots of activity seems to work well.

The Danihers say their daughter has battled paranoia, sleeplessness, and
tendencies towards violent and abusive behaviour.

It's taken a toll not just on them, but their younger son as well.

But the province's move to put the issue at the forefront is step in the
right direction.

Gord said a more comprehensive approach in prevention and treatment programs
must be put together.

"You have to be aware, and talk to your kids," he said. "Saying no is not
enough."