Incolink Family Support Service

Crystal methamphetamine, or 'ice', is a synthetic drug stimulant and variant of Methamphetamine.

Crystal methamphetamine is one of the most potent varieties of the drug and is usually colourless and odourless. The name ‘ice’ became popular due to the drug’s form of white little ‘crystals’ and glass-like appearance

Find more valuable information and fact sheets at cracksintheice.org.au

Signs that someone may be using crystal methamphetamine ('ice') can include:

• Dilated (enlarged) pupils
• Increased energy
• Aggressive behaviour
• Trembling
• Complaints of stomach cramps, blurred vision, headaches or dizziness
• Exhaustion, fatigue or insomnia
• Irritability and moodiness
• Reduced appetite or other changes to eating patterns
• Anxiety symptoms such as panic attacks, dizziness, sweating, dry mouth, muscle aches, headaches and nausea
• Problems with money, friends, relationships or the law
• Their ice use is affecting their relationships with friends, family members and colleagues.
• They are unable to carry out routine responsibilities such as work, school or family time.

Find more valuable information and fact sheets at cracksintheice.org.au

The following signs indicate that a person may be on ice:

• They mention that their ice use is out of control.
• They are increasing their amount of ice use or seem to be less affected by the same amount.
• The substance is consumed in larger amounts, or over a longer period of time, than intended.
• They worry about their ice use.
• They express a wish to stop using ice, or at least to cut down or control their use.
• They find it difficult to stop using, or to go without ice.
• Missing an opportunity to use ice makes them feel anxious or worried.
• Much of their time is taken up by ice-related activities (for example, obtaining ice, using ice, recovering from its effects).
• Other social, professional or recreational activities are reduced or completely given up in order to make more time for the drug.

Find more valuable information and fact sheets at cracksintheice.org.au

If you’re worried about a loved one who may be using ice, you can get support. It can be difficult to seek help but, in most cases, the sooner you reach out for support, the better.

The Incolink Ice Support Service is available to both individuals and family members simply by calling 1300 000 129.

Arrange a suitable time to talk where you will have some privacy and won’t be interrupted. You might have to do this in a location that your loved one feels comfortable in, rather than expecting them to come to where you feel comfortable. For some people, talking whilst looking into each other’s faces can feel very confronting, so think about whether you can walk and talk, talk whilst you are driving, or sit side-by side.

Only start the conversation with someone when they are not currently under the influence of drugs. If this is difficult try to pick a time when they seem less intoxicated than others (for example, in the morning). Try to avoid starting conversations when they are on their way out of the house.

It is OK to ask directly about their ice use; but don’t make assumptions that they are using the drug, how often, or why they use it. Use this as an opportunity to find out what it’s like in the life of your loved one. Aim to make the conversation relaxed and give the person a chance to express their views. A good way to start is with something like:

“I’ve noticed a few changes in you lately, and I’m a bit worried that you aren’t all that happy…what’s going on in your life at the moment?”, or

“How are your friends going? …I haven’t seen them in a while”, or

“I haven’t heard you talking much about uni or work at the moment…how’s that going?”

Have some specific examples ready that demonstrate the behaviours/issues that you are worried about, in case you get a “like what?” in response. Choose examples that also demonstrate your suspicions about their ice use.