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Holland A, Freeman TP, Nicholls J, Burke C, Howkins J, Harris M, Hickman M, Attwood A, Carlisle V, Krykant P, Maynard OM. Making sense of drug use and dependence-A scoping review of mass media interventions intended to reduce stigma towards people who use drugs. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 132:104543. [PMID: 39226769 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who use drugs face entrenched stigma, which fosters shame, restricts service access, and exacerbates inequalities. The use of mass media in anti-stigma interventions offers an opportunity to challenge stigmatising attitudes at scale. There are, however, inconsistencies in messaging approaches used in mass media anti-stigma interventions, and how authors conceptualise and measure 'stigma'. METHODS This scoping review maps literature on the development and/or evaluation of mass media interventions intended to reduce stigma towards people who use drugs. We systematically searched seven databases for reports about: (i) people who use drugs, (ii) stigma, (iii) mass media. We charted data about intervention (i) subjects and recipients, (ii) format, (iii) authors, (iv) content; and (v) conceptualisation and measurement of stigma. We narratively synthesised findings with qualitative content analyses. RESULTS From 14,256 records, we included 49 reports about 35 interventions. 25/35 were from the last five years and 19/35 were from the United States. Intended recipients included the public and/or specified sub-populations, often including healthcare workers. Most interventions were intended to reduce stigma towards people with patterns of drug use perceived to be problematic, as opposed to people who use drugs in general. Interventions ranged from single pieces of media to complex multi-format campaigns. People who use(d) drugs contributed to 22/35 interventions. Professionals working in medical disciplines co-authored 29/35 interventions. Intervention content often had a medical focus, describing dependence as a 'disease' or medical issue, and emphasised the benefits of recovery. Other interventions, however, criticised medical framings. In some interventions drug use and people who use drugs were described in markedly negative terms. 'Stigma' was often under-theorised, and measurement approaches were inconsistent, with 42 instruments used to measure phenomena associated with stigma across 19 quantitative evaluations. CONCLUSION We found inconsistencies in approaches to reduce and measure stigma, potentially reflecting different motivations for intervention development. The primary motivation of many interventions was seemingly to promote drug service engagement and recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Holland
- School of Psychological Science, University of Bristol, 12a Priory Road, Clifton, Bristol, UK; Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Canynge Hall, Clifton, Bristol, UK; London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, UK.
| | - Tom P Freeman
- University of Bath, Department of Psychology, Addiction and Mental Health Group, Bath, UK
| | | | - Chloe Burke
- School of Psychological Science, University of Bristol, 12a Priory Road, Clifton, Bristol, UK; University of Bath, Department of Psychology, Addiction and Mental Health Group, Bath, UK
| | - Joshua Howkins
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Canynge Hall, Clifton, Bristol, UK
| | - Magdalena Harris
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, UK
| | - Matthew Hickman
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Canynge Hall, Clifton, Bristol, UK
| | - Angela Attwood
- School of Psychological Science, University of Bristol, 12a Priory Road, Clifton, Bristol, UK
| | - Vicky Carlisle
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Canynge Hall, Clifton, Bristol, UK
| | - Peter Krykant
- Cranstoun, Thames Mews, Portsmouth Road, Esher, Surrey, UK
| | - Olivia M Maynard
- School of Psychological Science, University of Bristol, 12a Priory Road, Clifton, Bristol, UK
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2
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Makki A, Day C, Chaar BB. Professional stigma towards clients with methamphetamine use disorder - a qualitative study. J Pharm Policy Pract 2024; 17:2306869. [PMID: 38456180 PMCID: PMC10919299 DOI: 10.1080/20523211.2024.2306869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) is associated with poor health outcomes. Pharmacists play a role in delivery of substance use treatment, with several studies having examined their attitudes to people with opioid use disorder, but little is known about their attitude towards people with MUD. This study aimed to explore pharmacists' perspectives on the provision of services to clients with MUD. Methods A convenience sampling strategy was used to recruit community pharmacists across Sydney, Australia. Semi structured interviews examined views and ideas of pharmacists surrounding the treatment and management of MUD, followed by coding of transcribed interview data by all members of the research team. Results Nineteen pharmacists completed the interviews. The main theme identified was stigma held by healthcare professionals. The almost unanimous perception amongst pharmacists was fear and apprehension towards people with MUD, including underlying assumptions of criminality, misinformation regarding people with MUD, and lack of education and knowledge surrounding MUD. Conclusion A substantial amount of stigma towards people with MUD was found in this study. Negative attitudes by healthcare professionals can perpetuate healthcare disparities and impede the accessibility of future treatment programs for people with MUD. Appropriate educational interventions on MUD for pharmacists are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Makki
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney School of Pharmacy, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Carolyn Day
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Addiction Medicine, Central Clinical School, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Betty B. Chaar
- Professionalism Committee School of Pharmacy FMH, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney School of Pharmacy, Camperdown, Australia
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Stalgaitis CA, Jordan JW, Tate B, Cruse B, Bellon M, Oruga R, Hurley B. There is hope and help: Reach and reception of a methamphetamine education campaign in Los Angeles County, California. Prev Med Rep 2023; 36:102518. [PMID: 38116271 PMCID: PMC10728456 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction In the context of increasing rates of methamphetamine (meth) overdose in Los Angeles County, California, USA, in 2021 the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health relaunched Meth Free LA County, a methamphetamine public education campaign built on Rescue Agency's Decision BlocksTM Strategic Framework. Methods To assess campaign reach and reception, we examined media data and an online cross-sectional post-campaign survey in 2021 with a convenience sample of 750 county residents ages 18-54 who had used meth, were at-risk, or had personal relationships with people at-risk. We assessed campaign awareness, receptivity, and perceived effectiveness. Participants also reported concern about meth use in their community, recall of 10 facts from campaign content, and if they had taken promoted actions such as seeking help. We compared proportions between campaign-aware and unaware participants and explored if recall predicted these measures. Results Most participants recalled the campaign (84.1%), felt it offered a new way of looking at meth (73.8%), and reported it made them feel that help is available (84.0%) or that it could help reduce their own use (82.4%). Video advertisements received high perceived effectiveness scores. Greater campaign recall was associated with significantly increased odds of being concerned about meth use in the community, recalling facts, and taking promoted actions. Conclusion In 2021, Meth Free LA County reached its high-risk audiences. Unlike fear-based campaigns its message resonated with high-risk individuals, providing an example of how public education campaigns on meth and similar illicit substances can connect with their audiences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Brandon Tate
- Rescue Agency, 2437 Morena Blvd, San Diego, CA 92110, USA
| | - Brian Cruse
- Rescue Agency, 2437 Morena Blvd, San Diego, CA 92110, USA
| | | | - Rangell Oruga
- Substance Abuse Prevention and Control Division, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, 1000 S Fremont Ave, Bldg A-9 East, 3 Floor, Alhambra, CA 91803, USA
| | - Brian Hurley
- Substance Abuse Prevention and Control Division, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, 1000 S Fremont Ave, Bldg A-9 East, 3 Floor, Alhambra, CA 91803, USA
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4
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Douglass CH, Win TM, Goutzamanis S, Lim MSC, Block K, Onsando G, Hellard M, Higgs P, Livingstone C, Horyniak D. Stigma Associated with Alcohol and Other Drug Use Among People from Migrant and Ethnic Minority Groups: Results from a Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies. J Immigr Minor Health 2023; 25:1402-1425. [PMID: 36976449 PMCID: PMC10632266 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-023-01468-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Stigma reduces access to alcohol and other drug (AOD) support. This systematic review explored perceptions and experiences of stigma associated with AOD use among migrant and ethnic minority groups. Qualitative studies published in English were identified using six databases. Two reviewers screened and critically appraised articles using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for qualitative studies. Data were synthesised using best fit framework synthesis. Twenty-three studies were included. Stigma drivers and facilitators included stereotypes, socio-cultural norms, legal responses and precarious lived experiences. Stigma intersected with gender, citizenship, race and ethnicity and manifested though shame, exclusion, secondary stigma and discrimination in treatment. Outcomes and impacts included avoidance of services, emotional distress, isolation and loneliness. This review identified similar stigma experiences to other populations, however outcomes were complicated by precarious lived experiences and multiple stigmatised identities. Multi-level interventions are required to reduce AOD-related stigma for migrant and ethnic minority groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin H Douglass
- Burnet Institute Australia, 85 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia.
| | - Thin Mar Win
- Burnet Institute Myanmar, 226 Wizaya Plaza, U Wisara Road, Yangon, Myanmar
| | | | - Megan S C Lim
- Burnet Institute Australia, 85 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
- Monash School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Karen Block
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Gerald Onsando
- Melbourne School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Melbourne, 420 John Medley Building, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Margaret Hellard
- Burnet Institute Australia, 85 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
- Monash School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Peter Higgs
- Burnet Institute Australia, 85 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
- Public Health Department, La Trobe University, Plenty Road, Bundoora, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Charles Livingstone
- Monash School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Danielle Horyniak
- Burnet Institute Australia, 85 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
- Monash School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
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5
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Scott R. Methamphetamine dependence in Australia-why is 'ice' (crystal meth) so addictive? PSYCHIATRY, PSYCHOLOGY, AND LAW : AN INTERDISCIPLINARY JOURNAL OF THE AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND ASSOCIATION OF PSYCHIATRY, PSYCHOLOGY AND LAW 2023; 31:671-704. [PMID: 39118784 PMCID: PMC11305059 DOI: 10.1080/13218719.2023.2206870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Australia has one of the highest rates in the world of the use of the crystalline form of methamphetamine, a highly addictive stimulant that is often associated with a chronic, relapsing dependency. Methamphetamine use is associated with both acquisitive and violent offending, which cause substantial personal and societal costs. Whilst the short-term euphoria and stimulation provide a positive reinforcement to methamphetamine use, the aversive states of withdrawing from methamphetamine and the associated craving, which may last up to five weeks into abstinence, underlie the negative reinforcement to continued methamphetamine use. Although many methamphetamine-dependent users experience high levels of psychological distress, it is likely that less than half engage with treatment or support services, and current intervention and treatment programmes have high discontinuation rates. Stigma and discrimination, even from paramedics and health clinicians, are prominent barriers to methamphetamine-dependent users accessing treatment in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russ Scott
- West Moreton Prison Mental Health Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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6
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Sanatkar S, Heinsch M, Tickner C, Hunt S, Teesson M, Geddes J, Gilbert J, Pedemont L, McKetin R, Kay-Lambkin F. A systematic literature review and narrative synthesis of effective interventions for family and caregivers of people who use methamphetamine. Subst Abus 2022; 43:1190-1196. [PMID: 35617624 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2022.2074600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Background: Methamphetamine is a highly addictive central nervous stimulant associated with numerous adverse health, psychological, and social impacts. Family and friends of people who use methamphetamine often take on a crucial caregiving role in supporting their loved one. Consequently, they can experience a range of psychosocial challenges themselves. This review aimed to identify and assess the effectiveness of interventions designed to support caregivers of people who use methamphetamine. Methods: A systematic search of relevant literature published in the English language was conducted. Of 2257 records identified, only 2 evaluation studies examined interventions specifically designed for caregivers of people who use methamphetamine. Additionally, four qualitative accounts described experiences of caring for people who use methamphetamine. These accounts were summarized narratively to provide a more complete picture of family and caregiver experiences and coping strategies. Results: Effective treatment components included tending to caregiver concerns and providing training to enhance informational support and problem-solving skills. Qualitative accounts uncovered a range of challenges experienced by caregivers, such as emotional distress, concern for the person using methamphetamine, disrupted family structures, and financial difficulties. Coping strategies included attempts at managing and supporting the person using methamphetamine while protecting the overall cohesion and wellbeing of the family unit. Conclusions: This review highlighted a lack of evidence-based interventions for caregivers of people who use methamphetamine. More research is needed to clarify concerns that may be particularly relevant for those in a caregiving role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samineh Sanatkar
- Center for Brain and Mental Health Research, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Milena Heinsch
- Center for Brain and Mental Health Research, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Campbell Tickner
- Center for Brain and Mental Health Research, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sally Hunt
- School of Psychology, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Maree Teesson
- The Matilda Center for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jenny Geddes
- Center for Brain and Mental Health Research, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jayden Gilbert
- Center for Brain and Mental Health Research, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lauren Pedemont
- Center for Brain and Mental Health Research, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rebecca McKetin
- Drug and Alcohol Research Center, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Frances Kay-Lambkin
- Center for Brain and Mental Health Research, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
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7
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Deen H, Kershaw S, Newton N, Stapinski L, Birrell L, Debenham J, Champion KE, Kay-Lambkin F, Teesson M, Chapman C. Stigma, discrimination and crystal methamphetamine (‘ice’): Current attitudes in Australia. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 87:102982. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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8
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Crystalline methamphetamine (ice) use prior to youth detention: A forensic concern or a public health issue? PLoS One 2020; 15:e0229389. [PMID: 32469882 PMCID: PMC7259510 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0229389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Links between crystalline methamphetamine (CM) use and criminal offending are often drawn in the media; however, there has been little scientific research into this relationship. The aim of this study was to ascertain the prevalence and correlates of lifetime CM use among a sample of young people in detention in Australia and to examine whether an association exists between lifetime CM use and recidivism in this population.The sample included 202 young people (164 males) in youth detention in the state of Victoria, Australia. Participants were administered questionnaires related to lifetime substance use and socio-environmental experiences. Lifetime mental health data and offending data were obtained for each participant from public mental health and policing databases. More than one third (38%) of the sample reported lifetime CM use. In multivariate logistic regression analyses, older age, male gender, polysubstance use, and high levels of community disorganisation were associated with CM use. The presence of a psychiatric diagnosis over the lifetime was not significantly associated with CM use. CM use was also not significantly associated with violent recidivism. Efforts to address CM use and related harm in detained youth should include community-based strategies to reduce CM use among this vulnerable population following their release from detention. However, the findings suggest that CM use on its own is unlikely to be an important consideration for professionals concerned with determining which young people should be selected for treatment designed to reduce the risk of violent recidivism.
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9
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Ferguson N, Savic M, McCann TV, Emond K, Sandral E, Smith K, Roberts L, Bosley E, Lubman DI. "I was worried if I don't have a broken leg they might not take it seriously": Experiences of men accessing ambulance services for mental health and/or alcohol and other drug problems. Health Expect 2019; 22:565-574. [PMID: 30945425 PMCID: PMC6543159 DOI: 10.1111/hex.12886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A large proportion of ambulance callouts are for men with mental health and/or alcohol and other drug (AOD) problems, but little is known about their experiences of care. This study aimed to describe men's experiences of ambulance care for mental health and/or AOD problems, and factors that influence their care. Methods Interviews were undertaken with 30 men who used an ambulance service for mental health and/or AOD problems in Australia. Interviews were analysed using the Framework approach to thematic analysis. Results Three interconnected themes were abstracted from the data: (a) professionalism and compassion, (b) communication and (c) handover to emergency department staff. Positive experiences often involved paramedics communicating effectively and conveying compassion throughout the episode of care. Conversely, negative experiences often involved a perceived lack of professionalism, and poor communication, especially at handover to emergency department staff. Conclusion Increased training and organizational measures may be needed to enhance paramedics' communication when providing care to men with mental health and/or AOD problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nyssa Ferguson
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Savic
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Terence V McCann
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate Emond
- Department of Rural Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health, Science and Engineering, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emma Sandral
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karen Smith
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Ambulance Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Community Emergency Health and Paramedic Practice, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Louise Roberts
- Department of Paramedics, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Dan I Lubman
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Cartwright K, Tait RJ. Service providers' experience of methamphetamine and the portrayal of the 'ice epidemic' in remote Australia. Aust J Rural Health 2019; 27:83-87. [PMID: 30693985 DOI: 10.1111/ajr.12483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To contrast service providers' perceptions about crystalline methamphetamine (henceforth, ice) use and harm with information communicated in media reports and politicians' statements. DESIGN In-depth semi structured interviews with service providers about the nature and extent of ice use in the local community and its impact on individual services, clients and town life. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, manually analysed and coded around key themes, interpreted and independently cross-checked for context and accuracy. SETTING Two remote towns located in different states and territories operating as service hubs to very remote communities. PARTICIPANTS Twenty-seven key service providers representing local organisations that engage with ice users and/or their families. RESULTS First, compared with alcohol, ice use and ice-related harm were insignificant at the two sites. Ice users were primarily high-earning and -functioning non-Australian Aboriginal tradesmen, and to a lesser extent, professionals and secondary school students. There were few Australian Aboriginal users. Ice was used to 'party', keep alert, and escape psychological distress. Second, the 'Ice Destroys Lives' campaign and references to an 'ice epidemic' amplified public anxiety about ice and ice-related harm in the surveyed communities. Third, the attention on ice distracted from the more extensive harm arising from alcohol use in their communities. CONCLUSION The respondents questioned the notion of an 'ice epidemic' and the use of federal funding for ice-related initiatives in remote communities, especially while general alcohol and other drug services were under-resourced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Cartwright
- National Drug Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Robert J Tait
- National Drug Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Champion KE, Chapman C, Newton NC, Brierley ME, Stapinski L, Kay-Lambkin F, Nagle J, Teesson M. A Web-Based Toolkit to Provide Evidence-Based Resources About Crystal Methamphetamine for the Australian Community: Collaborative Development of Cracks in the Ice. JMIR Ment Health 2018; 5:e21. [PMID: 29559427 PMCID: PMC5883077 DOI: 10.2196/mental.8891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Revised: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of crystal methamphetamine (ice) and the associated harms for individuals, families, and communities across Australia has been the subject of growing concern in recent years. The provision of easily accessible, evidence-based, and up-to-date information and resources about crystal methamphetamine for the community is a critical component of an effective public health response. OBJECTIVE This paper aims to describe the codevelopment process of the Web-based Cracks in the Ice Community Toolkit, which was developed to improve access to evidence-based information and resources about crystal methamphetamine for the Australian community. METHODS Development of the Cracks in the Ice Community Toolkit was conducted in collaboration with community members across Australia and with experts working in the addiction field. The iterative process involved the following: (1) consultation with end users, including community members, crystal methamphetamine users, families and friends of someone using crystal methamphetamine, health professionals, and teachers (n=451) via a cross-sectional Web-based survey to understand information needs; (2) content and Web development; and (3) user testing of a beta version of the Web-based toolkit among end users (n=41) and experts (n=10) to evaluate the toolkit's acceptability, relevance, and appeal. RESULTS Initial end user consultation indicated that the most commonly endorsed reasons for visiting a website about crystal methamphetamine were "to get information for myself" (185/451, 41.0%) and "to find out how to help a friend or a family member" (136/451, 30.2%). Community consultation also revealed the need for simple information about crystal methamphetamine, including what it is, its effects, and when and where to seek help or support. Feedback on a beta version of the toolkit was positive in terms of content, readability, layout, look, and feel. Commonly identified areas for improvement related to increasing the level of engagement and personal connection, improving the ease of navigation, and balancing a "low prevalence of use, yet high impact" message. A total of 9138 users visited the website in the 3 months immediately post launch, and over 25,000 hard-copy Cracks in the Ice booklets and flyers were distributed across Australia. Of these resources, 60.93% (15,525/25,480) were distributed to relevant organizations and mailing list subscribers, and 39.07% (9955/25,480) were ordered directly by individuals, services, and community groups via the Cracks in the Ice website. CONCLUSIONS The codevelopment process resulted in an engaging Web-based resource for the Australian community to access up-to-date and evidence-based resources about crystal methamphetamine. The Cracks in the Ice Community Toolkit provides much-needed information and support for individuals, families, and communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina Elizabeth Champion
- National Health and Medical Research Council Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Cath Chapman
- National Health and Medical Research Council Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nicola Clare Newton
- National Health and Medical Research Council Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mary-Ellen Brierley
- National Health and Medical Research Council Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lexine Stapinski
- National Health and Medical Research Council Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Frances Kay-Lambkin
- National Health and Medical Research Council Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Brain and Mental Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Jack Nagle
- The Real Drug Talk, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Maree Teesson
- National Health and Medical Research Council Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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