How the Rise of Amphetamine Abuse in Australia Affects Us Here in New Hampshire and What You Need to Know About Amphetamine and Methamphetamine

How the Rise of Amphetamine Abuse in Australia Affects Us Here in New Hampshire and What You Need to Know About Amphetamine and Methamphetamine

According to Australia’s largest rehabilitation service, Sydney’s Odyssey House, for the first time in history Amphetamine abuse is the number one problem for people seeking treatment for drug addiction. Drugs like Heroin and Cocaine remain prevalent, but Amphetamine abuse cases are now larger in number.

Ten years ago, Heroin was the most prevalent drug of choice rehabilitation facilities in Australia encountered. However, the last ten years brought a decrease in Heroin supply and abuse, as well as a frightening rise in popularity of Amphetamine abuse. Other drugs that Sydney’s Odyssey House notes a rise in use include; “speed”, “ice” and “ecstasy”.

Select Odyssey House employees have associated the rise in Amphetamine abuse with a decrease in Heroin availability. According to the organization’s chief executive, James Pitt, in reference to the decrease in Heroin abuse and increase in Amphetamine abuse, “That has a lot to do with some of the interventions by The United States over in Afghanistan, who produces almost 90% of the Opium which produces Heroin,” he said, “It is because of the reduction in Heroin availability that Amphetamines have replaced that.”

How does Amphetamine Abuse Affect Us in New Hampshire?

The Odyssey House may be all the way in Australia, but Sydney is not the only place affected by a rise in Amphetamine abuse, Amphetamine being a close relative to “Meth” or Methamphetamine. According to Methpedia.org, a site dedicated to “Meth” or Methamphetamine prevention, tools and resources; there has been a rise in the availability in Methamphetamine within the state of New Hampshire. This substance is often produced in Mexico and transported into the state via express mail packages and private vehicles.

It is important to note that contrary to popular belief, Amphetamine and Methamphetamine are not the same. Methamphetamine and Amphetamine are both psycho-stimulants which increase the ability for one to remain awake. However, one large difference between the two drugs is that when used properly, Amphetamine can be quite useful and is often utilized to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). When abused, Amphetamine can cause serious health problems, some of which include; speeding up the metabolism to a level that can harm the human heart, dry mouth, shallow and rapid breathing, constipation, arrhythmia, dizziness, shaking and insomnia. Other side effects include the dissipation of such essential components of one’s life as; relationships, careers, prized possessions, pride, self-esteem and one’s sense of self, identity and sanity.

In comparing Amphetamine and Methamphetamine, (“Amph” and “Meth”), it may be noted that “Meth” actually breaks down into Amphetamine inside the human body. The main difference between the two substances is that the drugs are processed differently, and the way in which the two interact within the body differ. Another name for Amphetamine is Methylated Phenylethylamine.

When abused, Amphetamine is an addictive substance and Methamphetamine is known to be highly addictive. Those whom suffer from addiction of either of these substances are highly encouraged to seek professional support. Addiction counseling has been highly effective for many individuals seeking addiction recovery from Amphetamine, Methamphetamine and many other addictive drugs.

What Should You Do if You are Struggling from Addiction to Amphetamine, Methamphetamine or Both?

Self-Empowerment NH, LLC specializes in working with families suffering from substance abuse issues and has supported a number of individuals whom suffer from addiction to both Amphetamines and Methamphetamines. Through both individual counseling and family counseling; Selfempnh is here to serve as an empathetic, confidential and non-judgmental support system. 

For more information about counseling and group services and/or presentations regarding Substance Abuse in Youth and in the Workplace, please contact Lori Magoon, MLADC, LCMHC at (603)470-6937 or selfempowermentnh@gmail.com.

You are not alone. Open the door to self empowerment. Open the door to a better tomorrow.

Sources:

·         Methpedia.org/new-hampshire

·         ABC News- http://abc.net.au/news/2013-12-23/more-people-seeking-help-for-amphetamine-addiction/S171926