Crystal
meth use (also called crystal, crank, jib, meth, speed, or kiddie crack, to name
a few) is on the rise in our communities. Crystal meth is a central nervous system
stimulant. It is sold in pills, capsules, or powder and can be taken orally, injected,
snorted, or smoked. It is cheap to buy, available, and highly addictive. Some
users get hooked the first time they use crystal meth. One of the tempting effects
of crystal meth for our youth is that users experience a heightened sense of well-being
and experience feelings of elation and euphoria that last anywhere between 4 to
12 hours (depending on the dose). In comparison, a single dose of cocaine lasts
only about 8 to 20 minutes. This makes crystal meth very appealing to our youth.
It is a cheap and long lasting high. Crystal meth can be made in many diverse
locations, even the house next door. Over-the-counter cold and asthma medications
containing ephedrine or pseudo ephedrine, red phosphorous, hydrochloric acid,
drain cleaner, battery acid, lye, lantern fuel, and antifreeze are among the ingredients
most commonly used in manufacturing crystal meth. Because of this there is a greater
danger of users suffering a heart attack, stroke, or serious brain damage. As
parents, it is important to be aware of some of the signs that your child may
be using crystal meth. Some "tell-tale signs" are:
| Rapid heart rate | Heightened sense
of "well being" | | Euphoric
"high" state (excessively happy) | Decreased
appetite/weight loss | | Decreased sleep time | Anxiety,
shaking hands, nervousness | | Increased physical activity | Dilated
pupils | | Incessant talking | Irritable
| | Sweating not related to physical activity | Poor
hygiene and self-care | | Aggressive or
violent behaviour | Dizziness or confusion |
| Mood changes are common | Dental problems |
| Nasal perforations and nose bleeds (among snorters) |
If you are suspicious that your child may be using crystal
meth do not ignore the warning signs. Crystal meth addiction is considered to
be extremely difficult to treat and people addicted to crystal meth have one of
the highest relapse rates. As parents you need to be vigilant about recognizing
these warning signs in your child and seek treatment for your child at the earliest
possible time. There is help out there. You may be saving your child's life. Treatment
is available in Strathcona County Bosco
Homes offers a 6 to 9 month treatment program for adolescents dealing
with an addiction to crystal meth. Our Adolescent Drug and Alcohol Prevention
and Treatment (ADAPT) Centre is located approximately 16 km outside of Sherwood
Park. The actual length of treatment for each youth is determined by the
severity level of their substance misuse/abuse at intake and their willingness
to address their addiction. Youth at the ADAPT Centre are assessed and monitored
regularly to determine their level of risk, medical impairments, and progress
in treatment. Individualized treatment plans, interventions, and treatment strategies
are comprehensive to include all areas of the youth's life. Activating hope and
strengths in youth is a central principle at Bosco Homes' ADAPT Centre.
A highly structured program is offered which assists in maintaining consistency
and predictability of the client's environment. The program includes psycho-educational,
cultural, and recreational group activities on a regular basis. We view all aspects
of an average day for the client as effective tools for teaching positive social
skills, life skills, positive behaviour, and for dealing with the emotional trauma
that many of our clients have experienced. Some of the treatment components
include: Individual Therapy
Individual
therapy focuses on psychological aspects of the substance misuse/abuse and personal
barriers to recovery such as depression, traumatization or problem avoidance.
Family Therapy Family involvement and
family therapy is an integral component of the ADAPT program. Family members are
encouraged to participate in their child's treatment. Group
therapy Groups have the benefit of connecting with others
having similar problems, thereby overcoming feelings of isolation. Groups provide
clients with an opportunity to learn from, and give support to, each other. They
can instill hope, encourage information sharing and provide role models. The group
allows clients to find new ways to express themselves, or to review old conflicts
in a supportive environment. Some of the therapy groups offered
at the ADAPT Centre include:
Drug and Alcohol Education
Early Recovery/Relapse Prevention
Smoking Education, Prevention, and Cessation
Parent Education
Social/Life Skills 12 Step Meetings
Overall, the
focus of groups at the ADAPT Centre includes learning about what is a healthy,
well-balanced and happy life, and learning about health hazards of addictive behaviors.
There is help for addicted teens.
For
more information about the ADAPT Centre, call the Bosco Homes Central Intake Coordinator
at (780) 440-0708 ext. 259. |
