Heavy Drug Use Prevailing in Pacific Nations

The heavy drug use in the areas of Australia and New Zealand is affecting the smaller Pacific Nations negatively. As drug traffickers transport through the area to reach others that pay high prices for illegal substances like cocaine, an increase in addiction, corruption, and violence has been noted.

Drug Trafficking

Addiction creates drug trafficking and drug trafficking creates and adds to addiction. This is a vicious cycle that is being seen played out in the Pacific Nations that include areas like Samoa, Tonga, and Fiji. These areas were not known for drug use, but now a domestic market has developed because of transport through the areas. Many believe the people of these areas are victims of Australian drug use as the areas are caught between. While changes have been made to increase patrols in that area, the Pacific Islands feel that they are merely a shield, not being offered real help.

Cocaine Explosion

Using the Pacific Island area as a route between the US and Latin America to Australia. This is an unfortunate route for methamphetamines and cocaine which go for higher prices in these areas due to demand. As a main route, the Pacific Islands then end up with access which has grown their drug addiction and created violence in the area. The Islands, which are most associated with a vacation spot, are becoming narcotic hubs. This is because these islands are being used for storage for large amounts of narcotics. This is typically underwater or in ships that are passing through, but as crashes occur or nets break, the drugs wash ashore in large amounts.

Cocaine and Methamphetamines

Two of the most commonly shipped illegal substances to Australia are cocaine and methamphetamine. Cocaine is a stimulant drug that is powerfully addictive. Made from the coca leaves that were once chewed for the stimulant effect, current day street cocaine is a fine white powder, but is often cut with cornstarch, talcum powder, procaine, or even amphetamines. This increases profits for dealers, but makes the drug unsafe to use.

Methamphetamines are also highly addictive and come in crystal form that easily dissolves in water or alcohol so that it can be injected. Methamphetamines also create a happy, excitable effect, but more gets into the brain when compared to amphetamines. While medical uses are available for both cocaine and methamphetamines, the use is rare and highly regulated.

Recognizing Use

Recognizing the use of cocaine or methamphetamines may seem simple, but for those unfamiliar with the drugs the signs could be missed. Some of the most common are shared below:

Cocaine

Excitability
Dilated pupils
Weight loss
Mood swings
Socially isolated
Nosebleeds
Risky behaviors and choices
Poor hygiene
Financial difficulties

Methamphetamines

Hyperactivity
Twitching
Dilated pupils
Skin sores
Weight loss
Burns (lips and fingers)
Mood Swings
Rotting teeth

As you can see, many of the warning signs are the same for both addiction types caused by heavy drug use. Whether a loved one is addicted to meth or cocaine, the need for help is real. The type of help needed is also available at DARA.

Professional Help

Getting professional help for a drug addiction can be intimidating. This is not only due to price, though cost is a factor, but because it can be embarrassing to ask for help or even admit that a problem exists. Drug addictions caused by heavy drug use are often well hidden until a person has reached a very low point in life. Some people will seek help on their own, but others may need to hear from family and friends that help is needed. While an intervention may not be the way to go, setting clear boundaries are a must so that addiction does not spread through a family. If you or a loved one needs professional help then go with the affordable, luxury accommodations at DARA.

DARA Facilities

DARA is an in-patient rehab facility that helps with addictions of all types. With locations in Australia and other countries, DARA can work with those who have an addiction to start on the road to long term sobriety from drugs or alcohol, as well as other addictions. Specific to Australia, DARA has locations in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Auckland. With the location close to the Pacific Islands, yet away from the area in which the person is using drugs, DARA is the perfect option.

DARA is unique in its approach with the use of several areas that include education, relaxation, physical wellness, nutrition, and CBT treatments. Each aspect is helpful in teaching the addict to live a drug free life long term. CBT is a form of therapy that helps an individual identify specific behaviors and then the thoughts, feelings, and actions that make up those behaviors. Once these are identified, a change in the thought process can lead to changes in life. This can be helpful in identifying triggers that may be problematic when the in-patient stay is complete. Knowing one’s triggers means being able to plan ahead to deal with them or avoid them completely.

Physical Wellness

Many people and facilities overlook the importance of physical wellness as part of addiction treatment. Physical wellness and hygiene are often ignored by addicts so the body suffers as more drugs are ingested. The body further suffers through detox. This is why physical wellness activities and proper nutrition are a big part of DARA’s treatment. Top chefs from the area prepare daily meals and physical activities are required with many options available. Go for a morning swim, spend time with a personal trainer and help your body heal from the inside out. Time will also be spent in meditation and doing relaxation exercises throughout the 6 to12 week program. Furthermore, three weekly massages are included as part of the rehabilitation process. This can help the body relax and allow for toxins to be released.

The key to the success of DARA centers is the combination of these treatments and some time away from people and places in which drugs or alcohol are present. If you or a loved one is suffering with an addiction, call DARA to gain further information or set up a stay.

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