Tik Drug

Tik drug abuse in South Africa has become a major concern over the last few years and particularly amongst teenagers. Also known as Methamphetamine or Crystal Meth, this substance is widely available and a huge problem around the Cape Flats and other areas of the Western Cape. It is classified as a Schedule 5 drug and listed as an undesirable dependence producing substance. Addiction usually happens with a person enjoying the stimulating effects, heightened concentration, and enhancing effects on sex and other pleasures. The body gets used to the doses that a user takes and over a period of time the user has to take more and more to achieve the same results and experiences.

Symptoms experienced by Tik drug users include violent rages, confusion, anxiety type attacks, insomnia and paranoia which in some cases has led to homicide or suicide. Long term effects can result in damage to the blood vessels in the brain which cannot be reversed, producing strokes, irregular heartbeat and respiratory problems that can very well lead to death in some. This substance is not to be taken lightly amongst anyone who is taking it, or for anyone who may suspect that someone close to them is using it, it is life threatening and has already claimed many lives around South Africa over the last few years.

For those who suspect their child or someone else close to them maybe using this substance then look for the warning signs. These warning signs include aggression, dilated pupils, loss of appetite and weight loss, rapid speech, anxiety, headaches, unusually confident and insomnia. Also, more subtle signs may include a change in the way they dress, different friends and the way they speak, slang words etc. Anything lying around like light bulbs, glass straws or other bits and pieces that may look like they may be used to assist in using drugs. There are rehabilitation centres that addicts can be admitted to and the sooner you step in and help someone you suspect of having a Tik drug abuse problem, the better.