As we continue to plow through the plights of the opioid epidemic in the United States, another dangerous drug problem is rampaging far from our shores. In Australia, residents are living in fear of an ice epidemic, an outbreak of crystal meth abuse and addiction that is sweeping through the back country and cities. Needless to say, officials have a sound cause for concern: ice is the most potent form of meth on the illegal market. As with other types of the sickness, meth addiction can drive a wedge into private family circles and can ruin relationships at the drop of a hat. Ultimately, a normal home can become a chaotic, dangerous environment for children and adults alike. Let’s take a closer look at Australia’s ice epidemic.
Hot Spots Down Under
As expected with a health crisis, several areas of the country are being affected by the ice epidemic much stronger than others. In that light, researchers and members of law enforcement have identified several places they have dubbed “meth hotspots” in Australia:
- Wellington, New South Wales: This small town has earned the nicknames “Little Antarctica” and the “South Pole” because it has the highest rate of crystal meth use in Australia.
- Katherine, Northern Territory: Considered the meth capital of the Northern Territory, Katherine serves as a bridging point for illegal drug shipments.
- Murray Bridge, South Australia: In an interview with the Daily Mail, an elderly woman explained how she was chased by an ice addict who was wielding a chainsaw.
- Mount Gambier, South Australia: This territory has the 2nd highest rates of ice problems besides Wellington.
- Smithson, Tasmania: According to a report from The New Daily, 1 out of 7 residents of Smithson (out of the current number of 8,500 people) use ice.
- Sale, Victoria: Locals have witnessed professionals and children falling victim to ice in this town of 12,000 residents.
Prevention Strategies
In a recent report from ABC News Australia, Angus Taylor (Federal Minister for Law Enforcement and Cybersecurity) has stated that the country’s number-one priority is to drive a wedge into the ice epidemic, by any means necessary. As part of the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, the Drug Monitoring Programme confirmed that ice is the most commonly consumed illegal drug in the country. Tests for drugs in local water also revealed that the rate of meth use is 8 times higher than it was a few years back.
So, how do you put a stop to a nationwide epidemic? Simply put, Minister Taylor says the country will assemble an ice task force that will isolate and intercept the shipments of this illegal drug.
Seeking Treatment for Meth Addiction
Crystal meth might easily be one of the most dangerous and highly addictive drugs in the world, and (obviously) a substance of this potency should never be used as the theme for a party. Drug abuse and addiction (in the same manner as any chronic illness) should never be treated lightly. However, we are happy to tell you that health and happiness are always on the horizon, if you just know where to look for the stories.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug abuse or addiction or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of alcohol withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
