Dangerous drug and booze neck-and-neck in western victoria

March 14, 2015, 12:38 a.m.

THE devastating methamphetamine known as ice has rapidly taken over as the number one drug that users seek treatment for in areas near Ballarat.

THE devastating methamphetamine known as ice has rapidly taken over as the number one drug that users seek treatment for in areas near Ballarat.

Recent statistics reveal the startling fact that ice is the number one problem for treatment agencies in the Moorabool region, with more than 40 per cent of people seeking treatment.

The potent stimulant, made up of harsh chemicals that can cause immediate psychosis in users, has taken over from alcohol as the previous number one problem in the Moorabool region.

Australian Community Support Organisation (ACSO) chief executive Karenza Louis-Smith said while alcohol was still the number one problem in Ballarat, ice had quickly climbed to number two.

Twenty five per cent of people in Ballarat are seeking treatment for ice and about 35 per cent of people are seeking treatment for alcohol, Ms Louis-Smith said.

While its not number one in Ballarat, it has jumped to number two very quickly and its growing rapidly.

She said it would not be long before ice topped the list.

You have to remember that these figures are from those who are seeking treatment. There are still thousands in the community who are experiencing problems from ice use but arent yet seeking treatment, she said.

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Dangerous drug and booze neck-and-neck in western victoria