Meth use spreads through community

I read with interest your articles about the recent arrests of the methamphetamine ring and the corresponding article about the dangers of the drug. Unfortunately, this print space barely scratched the surface of the problem that our community has with this very deadly and destructive drug.

The pictures did not accurately depict the profile of a typical user. This is not just a blue-collar drug. It is used by professionals; it is used by housewives. Most importantly, no mention was made of the fact that this drug is used by a large population of students at the high school.

These children are male and female, and it is especially popular with white middle and upper-class girls who are ignorant of the risks but love the fact that they can be effortlessly and fashionably thin. No mention is made of the fact that this drug is easy to come by on campus or that almost everyone knows who is using it. Parents are ignorant until use is out of control: grades slip, mood swings become pronounced, weight loss ceases to be attractive and frequent fatigue, colds etc. are blamed on stress and too many activities rather than seen as addiction to a deadly substance.

This drug is so addictive, its use so easy to hide and its short-term benefits so attractive that the chance of intervening before one becomes addicted is almost impossible. Health care professionals and school staff are uneducated about the signs and symptoms of the drug and detection is almost impossible without the addict's cooperation. If caught, most will say the use was sporadic or experimental and will swear that they won't go near it again. Trust me, they can't stay away from it!

Like alcohol, nicotine, marijuana and ecstasy, this drug is attractive to teens as a means of feeling attractive, powerful and in control. Without knowledge of the dangers and addictive qualities of this drug, we will continue to see it used. Education is the only answer and a commitment to a program of education is the obligation of the School Board, administrators and leadership of Carson City. Law enforcement can work on the supply side; only a commitment to a program of education can affect demand.