- Increased support for users, family and friends impacted by meth use
- Professional counsellors to refer people for treatment and support
- For meth help call 1800 874 878 or visit http://drugaware.com.au
The Liberal National Government today launched a dedicated, free Meth Helpline to expand the fight against methamphetamine use in Western Australia.
Mental Health Minister Andrea Mitchell said the important service was another initiative of the $14.9 million Western Australian Meth Strategy announced in this year's State Budget.
"I urge people with meth-related issues to call the Meth Helpline and talk with the professional counsellors about the treatment and support services available to them," Ms Mitchell said.
"The Mental Health Commission has allocated $300,000 over two years for this dedicated helpline to provide telephone counselling, information and referral services for anyone concerned about their own, or another person's, meth use."
The Minister said she had been listening to desperate stories of parents and others at public forums across the State in recent months, asking where to get help and information.
"Now I can simply say 'call the helpline' and know that the start of something potentially life-changing is just one phone call away for people," she said.
"It's important to remember that it helps to get help.
"No matter what the circumstances, helpline counsellors will be there to listen and provide help and support."
Helpline counsellors are professional and non-judgemental and will work with people who are concerned about their own meth use or that of someone else.
Parents, families and friends are encouraged to get support through the helpline.
Helpline counsellors can also link parents and other family members to a network of trained parent volunteers who have experienced their own child's alcohol or drug use.
The Meth Helpline also provides support via email and the live chat online messaging service.
The Western Australian Meth Strategy also includes funding for 60 dedicated meth withdrawal and rehabilitation beds, a specialist meth clinic, placement of specialist nursing resources in hospital emergency departments and expanded school drug education.
Fact File
- Helpline counsellors provide information, referral to local services, discuss treatment options, provide a free call-back service, support health professionals and can support people waiting for treatment
- Calls to the Meth Helpline are free from a landline and most mobile phones, depending on the service provider
Minister's office - 6552 5400
