While the level of methamphetamine use (including ice) has remained stable in population studies of young people at 2 percent, new research has found use of methamphetamines has increased significantly in young people already at risk of other drug- and alcohol-related dependence and harm.
“Tough on drugs” approaches to getting young people off methamphetamine and ice don’t work, and temporary rehabilitative measures don’t last. The problems affecting the rest of these youths’ lives have to be addressed long-term if we’re to have any hope of keeping them away from methamphetamines for good.
If we want to make a difference in the longer term, we need to address the broader context of these young people's lives, not just their drug use.
