The impact of an ice 'epidemic' is causing fear in principals and youth workers, according to an article in the Age. Of particular concern is the impact that the drug is having on children. The article reports that children as young as 12 are being exposed to ice and that the ice problem is one that is endemic to country towns. In Victoria, the government has committed $34 million to target the problem in outer regions of that State.

We recently reported that a change in the national curriculum will focus on drug education on schools. Education is a crucial tool in combating ice, as it is a highly addictive drug which, like many drugs, can cause dependence very quickly.

What is Ice?

According to the National Drugs Campaign, 'ice' is a form of methamphetamine, a stimulant. It is found in a crystalline form, and is often clear or translucent. The consumption of ice causes a 'rush', and the effects include exhilaration, a feeling of being more awake, and suppression of appetite. Ice can be snorted or swallowed, smoked or injected. Among the long-term effects of the drug are 'memory-loss, indecision, depression and psychosis', and the effects of withdrawing from ice include paranoia, disturbed sleep, and an inability to experience pleasure.

Impact on schools and the community

Ice affects people across the entire socioeconomic spectrum. The Sydney Morning Herald reports on allegations against wealthy families who are accused of being involved in the manufacture of ice. There have also recently been reports of high profile Australians who are now accused of very serious crimes, or who have only barely escaped very serious consequences as a result of their involvement with the drug. Deputy Commissioner Ashton, of the Victorian Police, told the Herald Sun that 'ice does not discriminate. It is addicting the children of the rich and the poor alike'.

Worryingly, the article by the Age speaks of a fear that drug dealers will target children. The combination of the way ice is available; through small dealers in the community, and its highly addictive effects, presents a particular danger for children.

School obligations

Aside from a school's obligations to provide drug education, the impact of ice in the community engages a school's mandatory reporting obligations. In most states and territories, there are reporting obligations incumbent on schools when there is a suspicion that a child may be at risk of physical, psychological or emotional harm. Particular signs of this may include:

• symptoms of neglect, including poor hygiene, dirty clothes, poor medical care or malnutrition;
• anxiety at school; and
• extended stays at the school, and a desire to not want to go home.
• students presenting with the signs of drug use.

Educators are specially placed to detect the impact of drugs on children. They are also specially placed to provide informed and accurate education to allow children to be armed with the knowledge to make responsible decisions. Remarkably, the Prime Minister has even said of the war on drugs 'It's not a war we will ever finally win. The war on drugs is a war you can lose – you may not ever win it, but you’ve always got to fight it'.

Does your school educate its community on the dangers of ice ?