Help available to deal with stimulant use

18 June 2007

People wanting to stop or significantly cut down on their use of stimulant drugs, such as methamphetamine, are being encouraged during Drug Action Week* to seek assistance from an innovative pilot program being run by Hunter New England Health.

“Cutting down on the use of stimulants, or being stimulant-free, provides people with a lot more choices about how they want to live their life,” Manager of the Stimulant Treatment Program Bill Robertson said.

“There are also the obvious health benefits of being stimulant-free, including being more in control of emotions and thoughts,” Mr Robertson said. “Stimulants intensify moods. For example, annoyance can quickly turn into intense anger or rage when you are using stimulant drugs.

“Being stimulant-free also gives you increased energy and motivation and medication is usually more effective in treating health issues when someone stops using all stimulants.”

The Stimulant Treatment Program is a four-year pilot program looking at the implications for stimulant drug users, in terms of drug dependency and mental health impacts.

The clinic opened on 30 November 2006 and offers a range of intervention services, which are supported by existing drug and alcohol and mental health services across the region.

“We have made some good ground since the program started, with 74 new people seeking treatment through the clinic since November, resulting in 122 follow up appointments and 602 occasions of service,” Mr Robertson said.

Part-time counsellors and registered nurses staff the STP clinic and medical support is also available.

“We provide assessment and counselling for people who are concerned about their stimulant use, as well as offering education, support and specialised treatment for clients who also have mental health issues,” Mr Robertson said.

Anyone who is over the age of 16 and wants to stop or significantly cut down their stimulant use or parents requiring information, support and brief counselling regarding their children’s stimulant use are encouraged to contact the service.

The Stimulant Treatment Program is available at Lower Ground Floor, McCaffery Wing of Royal Newcastle Hospital or by telephoning 4923 6776 (business hours).

* Drug Action Week® is an initiative of the Alcohol and other Drugs Council of Australia (ADCA) and is a national week of activities to raise awareness about alcohol and other drug issues and to promote the achievements of those who work to reduce drug related harm. For more information, visit http://www.drugactionweek.org.au

Contact: Shannon Ramadge

Phone: 4921 4924