What Deters Illicit Drug Use
The illicit status of drugs does deter use.
The dislike of illicit drugs and their effects on humans is also a major deterrent.
As well, young people concerned about the effect of illicit drugs on their health does deter others.
For those that have used an illicit drug at some time in their life, the illegal nature of illicit drugs can lead to discontinued use.
The illegal nature of illicit drugs can also lead to reduced use of illicit drugs.
DRUG ADVISORY COUNCIL COMMENTS-
This is a timely reminder that the illegal status of drugs is and has always been a disincentive for some people to use illicit drugs.
Harm prevention programs should be focused on these disincentives.
The scientific evidence on the harms of illicit drugs to human physical and mental health is increasing so this information should be predominant in informing the community of the risks.
As well, the increased risk of accidents and injury from vehicle accidents is a major disincentive.
Drug prevention should be aimed at the young as world's best practice has shown that to prevent drug use in teenagers leads to illicit drug abstinence in adulthood.
Australia needs to reduce the number of current illicit drug users and the lessons of prevention are also applicable to discontinue use.
Identified illicit drug users need to be dissuaded from continuing usage so this is the most opportune time to educate them on the illegal status, health risks and damage that are involved.
THE DRUG ADVISORY COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA SUPPORTS-
More detoxification & rehabilitation that gets illicit drug users drug free.
Court ordered and supervised detoxification & rehabilitation.
Less illicit drug users, drug pushers and drug related crimes.
12/2010
