Podcasts about drug foundation

A new report from the Drug Foundation highlights that in 2023 and 2024, 3.1 percent of adults reported taking psychedelics like LSD, psilocybin and ketamine. In 2017 and 2018 only 1.3 percent of adults reported taking psychedelics - meaning use has more than doubled. Drug Foundation Director Sarah Helm spoke to Corin Dann.

Drug overdose deaths have almost doubled in less than a decade and at the same time, the number of people accessing specialist help is trending downward. The Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission found 188 people died from an overdose in 2023. That's more than half the road toll, and more than twice the number of drowning deaths. Drug Foundation Executive Director Sarah Helm told Ryan Bridge we lose three New Zealanders every week to accidental and preventable drug overdose. She says at the same time there's been a decline in access to addiction services. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Drug Foundation says the country barely invests anything into helping and supporting people with meth-addiction. Discharges from public hospitals suggest meth-use has increased four-fold over the past decade. Wastewater testing last year showed a doubling in meth use. Drug Foundation Chief Executive Sarah Helm told Mike Hosking a lot more could be done, especially with knowledge from new research. She says about half of people using illicit substances have ADHD, which could help prevent drug-use if treated. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hayden from the Drug Foundation chats mushrooms - just in time for Autumn! Thanks to The Level!

It's a busy morning at the b! Jonny's packed show featured Political Commentary with David Slack and a chat with Sola Rosa and premiere of the new single The Sun Doesn't Shine featuring Joe Probert. Later, Jonny speaks with Florian Habicht, director of Pulp: A Film About Life, Death & Supermarkets, about the film's ten year anniversary and special screening at The Hollywood. Plus, Hayden from The Drug Foundation chats cocaine, harm reduction and the importance of testing on What's The Buzz? brought to you by The Level. 

Colombian President Gustavo Petro made headlines all over the world after claiming cocaine was 'no worse than whisky' during a live broadcast of a government meeting. During a six-hour ministerial meeting – broadcast live for the first time ever – the President also suggested the global cocaine industry could be 'easily dismantled' if the drug were legalised worldwide. Sarah Helm from the NZ Drug Foundation joined the Afternoons team to explain why President Petro may have felt the need to bring this up - citing the death toll caused by the region's war on cocaine and other drugs. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hayden recaps 2024/2025 so far and low-levels of adulteration, plus the ongoing positive impacts of drug education and checking. They'll be at Laneway next week too! Thanks to The Level and The Drug Foundation Aotearoa.

New wastewater testing results show there has been a significant rise in methamphetamine and cocaine consumption over the past few months. Drug Foundation executive director Sarah Helm spoke to Corin Dann.

The Drug Foundation wants urgent action, with meth and cocaine consumption reaching record levels. Police wastewater testing between June and September reveals levels of both drugs were at the highest volumes recorded since the programme began six years ago. Chief Executive Sarah Helm says harm reduction, addiction and acute healthcare services all need to be prepared for an increase in need. She told Heather du Plessis-Allan they've been hearing anecdotally that there hasn't been a growth in the number of people consuming the drugs – meaning there's potentially a small number of people consuming a lot more of it. Helm says they're really concerned we'll be seeing a very acute harm, with hospitalisations, psychosis, heart health issues, and a growth in addiction. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just less than two weeks ago, two new drug use surveys have been released, showing significant increases in drug use and availability, especially cocaine. In the past five years, drug prices have continued to fall and in turn use for some substances have almost doubled. The nearly fifty-year-old drug law is outdated and has resulted in greater supply and addiction. The government's current approach of infrequent drug busts and supply restrictions are ineffective at preventing that. Sasha spoke to The New Zealand Drug Foundations Executive Director, Sarah Helm, about the new survey results and issues surrounding safe use.

Just less than two weeks ago, two new drug use surveys have been released, showing significant increases in drug use and availability, especially cocaine. In the past five years, drug prices have continued to fall and in turn use for some substances have almost doubled. The nearly fifty-year-old drug law is outdated and has resulted in greater supply and addiction. The government's current approach of infrequent drug busts and supply restrictions are ineffective at preventing that. Sasha spoke to The New Zealand Drug Foundations Executive Director, Sarah Helm, about the new survey results and issues surrounding safe use.

Remember yesterday when we were talking about the declining rates of hazardous drinking among young people? Good news. And then so many of you positing that it's because they're popping pills and taking other drugs. Bad news. It looks like you might be right. The 2024 New Zealand Drugs Trend Survey has found that the price of drugs is dropping, the meth market saturated, and drug use has increased in just about all the regions. The availability of LSD and other psychedelics is growing, prices have been dropping for the past seven years, Kiwis' cocaine use is up the wazoo —I suppose you could put it up the wazoo, it's usually up the nose— but that's everywhere in all the regions. Cannabis is everywhere and the price has dropped marginally. The fact that meth has reached record-low prices is because new players are entering the market. Just as with anything that you manufacture, doing it yourself in New Zealand is more expensive than importing it from overseas, and that is concerning. Professor Chris Wilkins from Massey University says new players have entered the market and our drugs are no longer just a bit of marijuana growing locally. CW: It's a global market, so a lot of the methamphetamine we have traditionally used has come from Southeast Asia, but Australian police are saying that 70% of the meth they now see is actually from North America, South America, actually are Mexican cartels, and they're essentially just like in the other market, they're seeing a market opportunity and they're selling at a cut price. MH: There seems to be a tremendous amount of cocaine about the place? CW: That's right. So there was another really surprising finding was that the level of cocaine use, level of cocaine availability, obviously in Auckland, but also in Northland, the Bay of Plenty, but really all over in New Zealand and this may well be some overlap with that Mexican cartel and of course, they're in the cocaine trade, and if they're selling meth to New Zealand and to Australia, then cocaine is also another thing that obviously got access to. So yeah, the Mexican cartels sending down their meth and saying, “look, hey gift with purchase, you might like to try a little bit of cokie wokie when you're taking your meth supplies”. So the survey says drugs are becoming increasingly prevalent, but illicit drug users are still in the minority if you believe the New Zealand Drug Foundation. You might think from that report and from what Professor Wilkins was saying that at every party in every town across New Zealand, there are mountains of cocaine and rows of meth pipes lined up on every table like little party favours, but the Drug Foundation says drugs like meth, MDMA and opioids are used by a relatively small percentage of the population. According to their figures —self-reporting— 3.6% of the population aged 15 and over used MDMA last year. That's around 152,000 people. 1.1%, around 47,000, used amphetamines, and 0.4%, around 18,000, used opioids. They rely on self-reporting, and the New Zealand Health Survey, which is self-reporting and wastewater testing data – which you think would be more accurate, but surely there must be more people using drugs than those who are appearing in the wastewater or those who are self-reporting? Otherwise, how are so many people able to make a living peddling drugs? Why would the cartels bother sending drugs into New Zealand if it wasn't worth their while? Are we seeing a disconnect between the numbers of people who are self-reporting and the actual trade itself? Do we need to know exactly what the extent of drug use is in New Zealand before we can have a conversation about drug use in New Zealand? If there are many, many people, like if it's more than 1%, if we're talking about 10% of the population using illicit drugs, then you'd think it would be time to take the Portuguese approach and decriminalise drugs to control the source and supplies so that it wasn't in the hands of the gangsters and the mobsters. And we really don't want Mexican cartels here, do we? But then you can't just take the Portuguese experiment, which has worked in Portugal and import it holus-bolus into your own country. In Canada, in British Columbia, they became the first and only province thus far to decriminalise the possession of a small amount of hard drugs to reduce the barriers and stigma “that bar those with severe drug addiction from life saving help or treatment”. It's running on a pilot basis until 2026, but already it's a disaster. It's come under increasing pressure from British Columbian residents and political opponents, who have called it a harmful experiment with all the drug users out in the streets and slumped over and unconscious, no safeguards for the public, and one that utterly failed to reduce drug overdose deaths. Remember the synnies that were doing so much damage, especially among the homeless people? They seem to have self regulated and thought, no, we're not going to use those because we're going to end up dying a horrible death. According to the latest Drugs Trend Survey, drug use is increasing across most drugs across all regions of New Zealand. The price is dropping, its hoots wahay, party time as we go into summer. But according to the Drug Foundation, 3.6% of the population using illicit drugs, it's not a huge amount of people, is it? So where are we at? What numbers do you believe? Is it worth having a moral crisis and raising the alarm about the amount of drug use and the cartels moving into here, or is it a relatively small number of people? How is it that 3.6% of the population can support all those gangs and all those cartels? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mental health campaigner Mike King comments that  "Alcohol is the solution for people with mental health issues" are being widely condemned by those who work with drugs and alcohol addiction. The founder of Gumboot Friday and I Am Hope Charity, which recently received $24 million dollars in Government funding, made the comments during a Newstalk ZB interview yesterday.  He was responding to a move by police to block a suicide prevention charity getting a liquor licence for a fundraiser in Dunedin. Well, a New Zealand study which analysed coronial data over 13 years to 2020 concluded that "Acute alcohol use was identified in approximately a quarter of suicides" in this country, while global data across 33 studies found alcohol has been found to be associated with a 94% increase in the risk of suicide.  The New Zealand Drug Foundation Sarah Helm spoke to Lisa Owen. 

We've all seen the memes – mums and their wine, like it's the ultimate parenting hack. But is it really that cute? In this episode, Kee and Kelly get real about their own relationship with alcohol and unpack the impact of “mummy wine culture.” From casual drinks to deeper conversations around self-care and coping, they explore how it affects their lives and what's really behind the jokes. LINKS: Wine Didn't Make Me A Better Mom - Kelley Manley Night Road - Kristin Hannah RESOURCES: National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline: 1800 250 015Alcohol and Drug Foundation: 1300 858 584Alcoholics Anonymous: 1300 222 222Lifeline: 13 11 14Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636If you're concerned about a loved one or family member's drinking, contact the Parent and Family Drug Support Line: (08) 9442 5000 or 1800 653 203 HOSTS & PRODUCERS Kelly McCarren ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@kelly_mccarren⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Kee Reece ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@keereece⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ AUDIO PRODUCTION Madeline Joannou - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mylk Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠

The government is promising to clamp down on the sale of nitrous oxide, but the New Zealand Drug Foundation would like to see them ensure naloxone is widely available as well. Substance Abuse Counselor at the Yorktown High School in Virginia Jenny Sexton spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

Ant is joined by beloved TV host, podcaster and mental health advocate, Osher Günsberg this week. Osher opens up about his journey from addiction to sobriety, coping with 'inescapable' anxiety, and the decision he made that altered the course of his life.  CW: This episode contains discussions of mental ill-health and substance abuse. If this episode raises any issues for you, help is available from Lifeline on 13 11 14 or via their website lifeline.org.au. Drug and alcohol support can be found with the Alcohol and Drug Foundation at adf.org.au or on their hotline 1800 250 015. LINKS Learn more about Osher Günsberg at oshergunsberg.com Follow Osher on Instagram @osher_gunsberg Osher's memoir, Back After the Break can be purchased here Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. If you enjoy listening to Head Game, you can vote for us in the 'Listener's Choice' category at the Australian Podcast Awards. Submit your vote at australianpodcastawards.com/voting CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Anna Henvest Managing Producer: Elle Beattie Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Wednesday, 14 August 2024 -a huge u-turn from the Reserve Bank with a cut to the Official Cash Rate today. Former Reserve Bank economist Michael Reddell and ASB boss Vittoria Short speak to Heather about the move. Drug Foundation boss Sarah Helm tells Heather what we know about the meth lollies that were handed out in Auckland mission food packages. The Huddle debates what's going on at Health NZ after commissioner Lester Levy publicly rebuked a suggestion by staff to make doctors and nurses redundant. Plus, why did Barry Soper drop out of his police officer course? Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's unclear how far meth-laced lollies could have been taken across Auckland. The Rinda brand pineapple lollies were donated to Auckland City Mission, and given out in food parcels. Drug Foundation Executive Director Sarah Helm says each lolly has about 300 doses of meth. She says even a single suck is dangerous. "There's still a range of effects, so you're likely to still feel an effect - possibly still needing to seek medical attention." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you sober curious? We've got some questions to ask yourself to help you interrogate your relationship with alcohol, inspired by tips from Kate Bee of The Sober School. If this episode has raised any issues for you, help is available from The Alcohol and Drug Foundation here: https://adf.org.au/ LINKS See more from The Sober School here Follow @novapodcastsofficial on Instagram CREDITS Host: Casey Donovan @caseydonovan88 Writer: Amy Molloy @amymolloy Producer: Adair SheppardEditor: Adrian Walton  Listen to more great podcasts at novapodcasts.com.au   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a Text Message.Sarah and The Shrub delve into the history, pharmacology, and brewing of the psychoactive beverage Kava.*** - “Kava” (Wikipedia). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kava- “Lapita Culture” (Wikipedia). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lapita_culture- “Kavalactone” (Wikipedia). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kavalactone- “Kava.” Alcohol and Drug Foundation, 06 June 2024.  https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/kava/- “Kava - Uses, Side Effects, and More.” WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-872/kava- “Kava.” National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.  https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/kava***ig: @shrubbish_podemail: shrubbishpodcast@gmail.comWhile I want to bring levity to the table, this podcast does contain descriptions of substance abuse. If you or someone you know needs help, the SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Welcome to todays Shed Wireless - A podcast for shedders. This episode is all about Men's Health Week – 10-16 June. Our special guest today is Associate professor Tim Moss health from our partner, Healthy Male. Rip Woodchip gives his spin on taking care of yourself. Stuart also talks to Robert Taylor from the Alcohol and Drug Foundation about how alcohol affects us differently as we age.

The Drug Foundation says nearly one in five drugs it checked last year were not what people thought they paid for. The foundation says its drug-checking services are testing fifty percent more drugs compared to last year, allowing more and more people to check what's in their drugs and letting them know how to stay safe. Cocaine and methamphetamine are the most likely to be something different to what they were sold as. Drug Foundation executive director Sarah Helm spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

There's been a 93 percent rise in cocaine use in the 2022-to-23 period according to the Drug Foundation. Meanwhile, seizures by police and customs as large as three tonnes have become more common over the last two years. Customs intelligence manager Bruce Berry spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

An increase in international cocaine production has spiked use of the drug on New Zealand shores. The Drug Use in Aotearoa report shows use grew by 93 percent over 2022 and 2023, compared to the previous three years' average. Its use is still relatively uncommon compared to other countries, with 1.3 percent of adults here using it in the past year. Drug Foundation Executive Director Sarah Helm says the UN warned that more countries could expect use of the drug to skyrocket. "1.3 percent of adults is nothing to be sneezed at, it's more than the number of people who used methamphetamine last year, for example." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Usage of more common drugs like MDMA and methamphetamine have gone down slightly, according to the Drug Foundation's latest report.

A new report can reveal cocaine use has increased by 93 percent in the past year. The Drug Foundation has drawn from wastewater testing to paint a picture of drug use across the country for the 2022 to 2023 period. It found 1.3 percent of adults used cocaine, compared to just 0.6 percent three years prior. Drug Foundation executive director Sarah Helm says while it's worth noting that the increase comes off of a low baseline, it signals that the increasing global production of cocaine is bearing down here. Sarah Helm speaks with Kathryn Ryan.

A warning is out that an opioid even more potent than fentanyl is circulating the country. The Drug Foundation says Nitazenes, a family of synthetic opioids, were first reported in Aotearoa in October last year. Kathryn speaks to Drug Foundation executive director Sarah Helm and psychiatrist and addiction specialist Sam McBride.

Are you stuck in a routine when it comes to drinking? Do you drink on auto-pilot? Do you ever feel shame when drinking? It might be time to explore the Sober Curiosity movement. In this episode we're sharing tips from Kate Bee, from The Sober School. If this episode has raised any issues for you, help is available from The Alcohol and Drug Foundation here: https://adf.org.au/ LINKS See more from The Sober School here Follow @thespace_podcast on Instagram    Watch @thespace_podcast on TikTok   Follow @novapodcastsofficial on Instagram    CREDITS Host: Casey Donovan @caseydonovan88 Writer: Amy Molloy @amymolloy Executive Producer: Anna HenvestEditor: Adrian Walton  Listen to more great podcasts at novapodcasts.com.au   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Drug Foundation says it's found a dangerous new drug being sold as LSD.  It's a hallucinogen called 25B-NBOH - and similar synthetic drugs have caused deaths in New Zealand and internationally.  The Drug Foundation's chief executive, Sarah Helm, spoke to Jimmy Ellingham.

A drug being sold as LSD turns out to contain a potent designer drug known as 25B-NBOH. It's a fairly new psychedelic substance, so little is known about it, but similar substances have been linked to hospitalisations and deaths. The Drug Foundation wants potential users to be wary and Executive Director Sarah Helm joined Tim Dower. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For some ignorance and hate is all they are willing to accept into their lives. That is the only way that a sane person can reason with the hate crime that was committed against Franklin "Ken" Kennedy Eaton Jr. while his daughter lay asleep in the next room. CONTENT WARNING: Todays case involves a hate crime and graphic violence. If you or someone you know needs help please contact: Crime Victims. National Center for Victims of Crime. Phone: 1-855-4VICTIM (1-855-484-2846) Be sure to follow us at: Twitter: @rarwpodcast Instagram: @rarwpodcast Contact us at: E-mail: redrumandredwinepodcast@gmail.com All music written and produced by: Savasas savasas | Free Listening on SoundCloud Resources: Amyl nitrite. Amyl Nitrite - Alcohol and Drug Foundation. (n.d.). Retrieved December 19, 2022, from https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/amyl-nitrite/ Delafosse, K. (2022, November 7). Couple who exploited gay men stabbed Iowa teacher to death while daughter slept in Next room. Iowa News. Retrieved December 19, 2022, from https://localtoday.news/ia/couple-who-exploited-gay-men-stabbed-iowa-teacher-to-death-while-daughter-slept-in-next-room-43533.html HABHAB, J., & SACKETT, J. (dissenting). (1990, March 27). State v. Green. Legal research tools from Casetext. Retrieved December 19, 2022, from https://casetext.com/case/state-v-green-514 Healing hearts & opening minds. The Ken Eaton Foundation || Hate Crime Support Groups, Crimes against Gays, Valentines for Victims, Victims Advocate Groups, Victims Advocate Speaker, Victim Advocate Foundations, Des Moines Iowa Foundations. (n.d.). Retrieved December 19, 2022, from https://healingheartsandopeningminds.org/

Festival-goers are being warned to get their drugs tested before they head to gigs this summer. The Drug Foundation says nearly a quarter of the "highs" circulating at festivals aren't what they claim to be. But despite testing being legal for two years now, most major festivals have missed out on the service because the organisations running it don't have enough kit or capacity. Lauren Crimp has been checking out the scene.  

US President Biden announced last Friday he would be pardoning thousands of cannabis possession charges, signalling a change of course in drug policy from the home of the War on Drugs, and a path towards decriminalisation of cannabis in the States.  Cannabis has been completely banned in Aotearoa since 1961 after the signing of the UN Convention on Narcotic Drugs, a treaty pushed heavily by the US. Between 1980 and 2022, over 120,000 people have been convicted of cannabis use or possession. In the wake of Biden's announcement, the New Zealand Drug Foundation has renewed calls for reform and launched a petition calling on the government to decriminalise cannabis and pardon possession charges. Spike Keith spoke to New Zealand Drug Foundation Executive Director Sarah Helm about the effects of cannabis criminalisation here, and what decriminalisation would look like.

Alcohol had long been a part of Danni Carr's world, from her early days growing up in central Victoria to her career as a gigging musician. Over the years, drinking impacted so many areas of her life – until one day she decided to team up with her husband and friends to go sober together. And it changed everything. Now, Danni uses her lived experience to help others, both through her work as a sober coach and as the host of the podcast How I Quit Alcohol. In this episode, I chat to Danni about her sobriety journey and the confronting moment that sparked a change. Plus, she gives practical strategies for addressing our relationship with alcohol, becoming a more mindful drinker, and navigating the sober – or sober curious – life.SHOW NOTES:Find Danni on Instagram @howiquitalcohol and at iquitalcohol.com.au Support resources: Alcohol and Drug Foundation https://adf.org.au/ 1300 85 85 84 Beyond Blue https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ 1300 22 4636 Lifeline Australia https://www.lifeline.org.au/ 13 11 14 CREDITS: This podcast was hosted by WH managing editor Alex Davies and produced by WH editor-in-chief Lizza Gebilagin with additional sound editing by Abby Williams.For more from Women's Health Australia, find us on Instagram, visit our website or find the print and digital editions of the magazine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I remember someone telling me once that the more children she had, the more conservative she got. She said that, when she was younger, she was a real risk-taker but, after having kids, she'd become a bit more scaredy-cat and worried about things a lot more - mainly about things to do with her kids, and making sure she was keeping them safe. And I remember saying at the time that I felt the same way. And it's something researchers in Britain have been looking into and they've just published their findings which pretty much back that up. They've found, after talking to thousands of people in 10 countries, that what this person told me years ago is actually a thing - and if you have kids, you tend to be more conservative than people who don't have kids. The reason I mention it, is because of this tragedy in Christchurch where a 20-year-old has died after what the police are saying may be due to a potential drug overdose, and a couple of cases in Queenstown where two people became unwell after taking what they thought was MDMA. Or ecstasy, as it's also known. And, as a parent who has definitely become more conservative as our kids have got older, this sort of thing terrifies me. I don't know all the details and I'm really mindful that there is a family out there living out every parent's nightmare. But I'm mindful too that there will also be a truckload of families out there who - by luck, and only by luck - aren't going through exactly the same thing right now. Because, as the police have said, after this tragedy in Christchurch and the two cases in Queenstown where people had seizures after using what they thought was MDMA the police are saying people need to be very careful about what they take because it could be something completely different. Which is why I say there will be families all over Canterbury who - through sheer luck - aren't facing the same tragic loss as this family in Christchurch, because there will be families whose kids are using what they think is MDMA but could, in fact, be something completely different. Drug dealers are no one's friend. They'll do anything to make a buck. And if that means mixing up drugs or telling people they're buying MDMA when it isn't - then that's what these low lifes will do. Just last week, the New Zealand Drug Foundation reported that 1-in-3 drugs sold here over the last six months weren't what the people buying them thought they were. 1-in-3 were either mixed with other substances or something completely different. Which is why the Drug Foundation and other outfits want drug testing made more available so people can check their drugs before they take them. It's been done on a relatively small-scale over the last couple of years, generally at music festivals. And, I've got to admit, that as one of those people who has become more conservative since becoming a parent, and as the kids have got older, the idea of having services to test drugs has freaked me out. Because I don't want kids taking this stuff and so I've probably seen drug testing as some sort of endorsement of drug use. But the reality is, people are using this drug and all sorts of other drugs. So why wouldn't we want to do everything we can to try and prevent tragedies like what's happened in Christchurch? Yes I probably bury my head in the sand a bit and wish kids weren't taking MDMA - or any drug for that matter. And yes, as the researchers in the UK have proven, it's because I have become more conservative as I've had kids and see them heading out into the party scene. The same kids who tell me MDMA is everywhere. They don't even blink when you mention it to them. I hate the thought of it. But then, back in the day, before I became this conservative parent - I probably wouldn't have blinked either. But now, every time I hear about families like this one in Christchurch who, last Saturday, had their boy go out for the night and who, this Saturday, will be having a funeral for him, it terrifies me. So if I'm so terrified, then I have to accept, don't I, that MDMA is everywhere and accept that the likes of the Drug Foundation aren't promoting drug use when they say people should be able to get their drugs checked before they take them. And that they want more drug testing to try and prevent tragedies like this one. And if we don't wake up, and accept that we have a real problem on our hands, then there will be more families having funerals because of the low life drug dealers who will do anything to make a buckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Health Minister will get official advice on a bunch of new recommendations for reducing methamphetamine harm before deciding whether to adopt any of them. A report released by the Helen Clark and Drug Foundation advocates for a health-based approach that includes fully decriminalising possession of small quantities of any drug, including meth, a pilot where addicts are given a substitute stimulant or methamphetamine in tightly controlled circumstances if two attempts at rehab have not worked, and providing incentives for clear drug tests. The report concludes its approach may surprise some, but the alternative has failed to address meth harm. Lisa Owen asks Health Minister Andrew Little if the government is prepared to decriminalise meth.

The Helen Clark Foundation and the Drug Foundation say a health based meth addiction scheme is working well to reduce harm. It's called Te Ara Oranga, and it's a trial programme for meth addiction. It's currently just in Northland and Murapara - and now there are calls for it to be rolled out nationwide. Ian Mckenzie, General Manager of mental and health and addiction services at Te Whatu Ora Northland says the community partnership aspect is important to the purpose of the organisation. “You can't think of drug use and substance misuse in isolation. You are a part of a community, and you become very connected, and if it permeates through, it's really hard for people to get away from it. I think having a community on board is just fundamental, critical.” LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you found out that your son or daughter, or grandson or granddaughter, or your wife or your husband, or partner - anyone close to you - was addicted to P or methamphetamine, would you want them treated as a criminal or would you want them treated for their addiction?  I'm willing to bet you'd want them treated for their addiction. You may have even been in this situation already with someone you love. I haven't, thank goodness. But you may have. But then what if you were the victim of a crime committed by a meth addict? Had your house broken into and precious things stolen, or been viciously assaulted or lost someone close to you in a car crash because some P-head was off their nut and still thought it was a good idea to get behind the wheel. Chances are, if you were in this situation - and, again, you may very well have been in this situation yourself - I'm picking you'd want the person with the P addiction treated as a criminal because their behaviour may have changed your life forever. And, understandably, you probably wouldn't give a damn about them and their issues and addictions. You'd just want revenge. There are, of course, exceptional cases where people find compassion they never knew they had. But if we narrow it down to two distinct responses, if you had someone close to you hooked on P - most likely you'd want them to get help. And a stranger on P who creates havoc in your life - most likely you'd want them locked up and the key thrown away.  It's a double-edge sword, especially when we consider the recommendations from the Helen Clark Foundation and the New Zealand Drug Foundation, which have looked into the meth problem in New Zealand. Their conclusion is simple - the war on drugs has failed, and they say it's time to stop making P users criminals because it doesn't do anything to get them off the drug and it only puts them on track for a lifetime of crime. Which makes perfect sense if we look at it from the perspective of someone who feels they're losing someone close to them because they're in the downward spiral of methamphetamine addiction. Of course I wouldn't want to see someone close to me locked away. I'd want them to get help. And one of the things the Helen Clark Foundation and the Drug Foundation are recommending, is that we help P addicts the same way we've helped people hooked on heroin for a long time here in New Zealand. And what they're talking about there is the methadone programme. You probably don't even blink an eye these days when you see former heroin addicts lining up to get their methadone, which they get to replace the heroin. In fact, most of us when we see these people probably admire them for doing something to get their lives back on track. I certainly do. So why wouldn't we do the same things for P addicts? It's a no-brainer, as far as I'm concerned. The challenge, though, is while we might like this sort of thing for P addicts we want to help. What about the ones we don't instinctively want to help?  The ones we don't know from a bar of soap who have only come into our lives because they're hooked on this awful drug and they only care about themselves - and getting their next hit - and they don't give a damn about anyone else. They certainly don't give a damn about you or me. Until we can get ourselves to the point of caring enough for all P addicts, not just the ones who might happen to be in our family or friends of ours, then I don't see this idea of the Helen Clark Foundation and the Drug Foundation going anywhere. Not making P addicts criminals and, instead, helping them get treated for their addiction sounds like a great idea when you haven't been at the receiving end. When you haven't had your house done over by a P addict desperate for anything that might help them buy more of the stuff. When you haven't lost someone who was perfectly innocent but who was in the wrong place at the wrong time and came a cropper because their path crossed with someone off their head on methamphetamine. And this is the tension that comes with approaches like the ones being suggested by the Helen Clark Foundation and the Drug Foundation. They're saying the war on drugs has failed and instead of condemning P users, we need to care about them. But are we ready to do that? Are you ready to do that?  Personally, I'm torn on this one. Because, of course, we should be helping anyone who's hooked on this awful, awful drug. But then the people hooked on it can become awful, awful people too - and giving a damn about them doesn't come easy does it? So I'm ready to care - but there also still have to be consequences. Yes, treat the addiction but don't give someone a licence to do whatever they want and get away with it just because they're hooked on P.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand's tough-on-crime approach to meth has failed. That's according to a new report from The Helen Clark Foundation and the Drug Foundation, which says we should take a health-based approach instead. The report says Te Ara Oranga, a trial programme for meth addiction run in Northland, should be rolled out nationwide. The executive director of the New Zealand Drug Foundation, Sarah Helm, spoke to Susie Ferguson.

National Party Health Spokesperson Dr Shane Reti joined the Weekend Collective to discuss the new report commissioned by the Helen Clark foundation and the Drug Foundation on NZ's response to meth, and the Drug Foundation's proposal for an overdose centre.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Patchy, punitive and failing New Zealand's communities. That's how a new report commissioned by the Helen Clark Foundation and Drug Foundation has described the current approach to reducing meth harm. It proposes switching the focus from punitive action to a health-based approach - expanding access to holistic treatment, health-checks and information. Report lead author Philippa Yasbek says they also recommend a pilot to test a stimulate substitute treatment for people who have tried all other avenues. She says in Canada and Switzerland, psycho-stimulants can be prescribed for people with addiction issues. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The NZ Drug Foundation is proposing a trial of an overdose prevention centre in central Auckland, providing a safe, medically-supervised setting for people who are taking drugs. The three year pilot programme would also provide basic health, harm reduction and support services. The Drug Foundation hopes it will take drug use off the streets, reduce harm and save lives. Its main focus will be those experiencing homelessness, and people who are taking synthetic cannabinoids, a drug which was caused at least 51 deaths between 2016 and 2020. Kathryn speaks to Sarah Helm, executive director of the Drug Foundation.

Auckland CBD could soon be a safe haven for homeless at risk of overdosing, but some are unconvinced an overdose prevention centre will make a difference. The Drug Foundation unveiled the plan at the City Mission today, with the proposal now with government ministers for approval and licencing. The Foundation says harmful drugs, like Fentanyl, could reach our shores and take hold of those living on Auckland's streets. But some who work on the coal face doubt the city's homeless will flock to the centre. Here's Nick Truebridge and cameraman Nick Monro.

How many people do you know who can be in the same job for 17 years and still feel like they are 'living the dream'? Mitchell Giles was the CEO of the Alcohol and Drug Foundation of Queensland (ADFQ), before it merged with the Gold Coast Drug Council in 2012 to become Lives Lived Well, and he's remained CEO since then. If compassion were a blood type you could be certain that Mitchell has it running through his veins. After the obligatory career experimentation upon leaving school, which included a failed attempt to get in the air force because, he could "basically only see in black and white," he settled on nursing, way back when male nurses aren't so common as they are today. A posting in a drug and alcohol unit at a not-for-profit hospital became the start of a long career, rising to the role of Nursing Manager, but when the hospital was privatised, Mitchell soon realised that he had a distinct preference for the not-for-profit environment and made the switch to community nursing. His passion for his work and his part-time studies for a Masters of Health bore fruit when he was tapped on the shoulder to take on the CEO role at the ADFQ. Starting with 40 people, and with a handful of mergers along the way, he's since grown the organisation to over 500 staff, providing drug and alcohol support as well as mental health and gambling support, throughout Queensland and in rural New South Wales. Useful Links Lives Lived Well Website - https://www.liveslivedwell.org.au/ Mitchell Giles on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchell-giles-84baa318/ Richard Triggs on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/richardtriggs/ Arete Website: www.areteexecutive.com.au/

Sarah Helm: Drug Foundation executive director on wanting easier access to naloxone after fentanyl arrivalSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Drug Foundation has set up pop-up drug-testing clinics in Wairarapa and Wellington, after a powerful synthetic opioid was discovered there. There's growing debate over whether it's time to decriminalise drugs in New Zealand, with 12 people in hospital after accidentally overdosing on fentanyl. They thought they had purchased cocaine - and despite there being legal drug testing agencies here, it appears they had not come forward to check. A new Drug Foundation shows 68 percent of people support decriminalisation, to unlock better education, treatment, and health-based approaches. We talk to Drug Foundation CEO Sarah Helm.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The arrival of a dangerous opioid in New Zealand's ignited calls for people to test their drugs.A dozen people in Wairarapa were taken to hospital after consuming fentanyl - likely sold as cocaine or meth.Preliminary tests confirm its fentanyl, although some samples are still being tested.The Drug Foundation's ordered 7000 extra fentanyl test strips, so people can check drugs at home.Chief executive Sarah Helm told Heather du Plessis-Allan they're advising anyone who's bought white powder to use them.She says they strips are available from the Hemp Store online or Needle exchange, in store and online.LISTEN ABOVE

The Drug Foundation is warning New Zealand is grossly underprepared to respond to a widespread fentanyl outbreak with a limited supply of the life-saving drug Naloxone. 

We're swooning, and it's for good reason! We've come across men dressing up for their daughters on Tik Tok!  Which leads us to a suggestion that dresses are probably better for men anyway!  And it's time for a little bit of a catchup on what's been going on with our bodies.  Angie's been re-introducing her body to some things after her surgery like alcohol. Plus we come to a conversation about why alcohol is such a social thing in Australia and how sometimes we use it all for the wrong reasons. LINKS Angie Kent @angiekent_ Yvie Jones @yvie_jones Angie + Yvie Insta @angie_and_yvie Nova Podcasts Instagram @novapodcastsofficial Email us at twogirls@novaentertainment.com.au If you've struggled with alcohol abuse, please feel free to contact The Alcohol and Drug Foundation here: https://adf.org.au/  CREDITS Hosts: Angie Kent & Yvie Jones Executive Producer: Rachael Hart Editor: Chae Rogan Managing Producer: Andrew Brentnall Show Artwork By: @ellymalone Find more great podcasts like this at novapodcasts.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new report finds dozens of people die each year from preventable drug overdoses, and New Zealand drug laws block the use of new harm reduction measures succeeding overseas. The Drug Foundation's 2022 State of the Nation Report finds opioid overdoses kill around 46 people each year, while synthetic cannabinoids have contributed to at least 51 deaths between 2016 and 2020. The report also finds drug related deaths for Maori are three times the rate for non-Maori. The Drug Foundation says that while changes to drug laws in 2019 have seen a 13 per cent reduction in convictions for low-level drug offences, the results have been far less than hoped. Kathryn speaks with Executive Director of the Drug Foundation, Sarah Helm.

Former NRL player, Chris Walker, recently took on his biggest challenge to date where he covered 2,000km walking from Cairns to the Gold Coast, raising money through Fund My Challenge to support partner charities Beyond Blue, Rize Up, the Alcohol and Drug Foundation and Global Awakening.   We catch up with Walker on his continued charity work and fighting for those who suffer from mental health, domestic violence and drug abuse. Causes like this are very close to Chris' heart and Body Science are proud to be able to support Chris in his journey.   Check out more amazing challenges happening at Fund My Challenge who are supporting causes and charities, saving lives. https://www.fundmychallenge.com/   Listen to any of the Body Science podcasts at https://www.bodyscience.com.au/podcast To be notified when a new podcast goes live, head over to our Spotify, YouTube, SoundCloud or iTunes channel and subscribe.  

A group of health experts are suggesting an Auckland wide freeze on prosecuting people for personal drug use while the city's under strict Covid-19 restrictions. A think-piece by epidemiologists, public health experts and the head of the NZ Drug Foundation says the virus is still spreading in deprived and marginalised groups and there needs to be an urgent review of containment measures. And it suggests a harm minimisation approach when it comes to people who are drug and alcohol dependent, who could be particularly vulnerable to Covid-19. Drug Foundation boss Sarah Helm talks to Lisa Owen.  

Former NRL rugby league player Chris Walker completed his 2.5million step expedition in July 2021, he walked from Cairns to the Gold Coast to raise money for charity and raised an amazing $200k in total. Chris covered a brutal 1900 kilometres over 71 days to raise awareness for charities: Beyond Blue, RizeUp Australia and the Alcohol and Drug Foundation. Demand for specialist services offered by all three charities has been at record levels over the past 18 months, due to the mental health challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Walker has partnered with the new charity fundraising platform Fund My Challenge, a challenge-based charity app which has been created to revolutionise the giving process. Get to know the life of this incredible man, from his upbringing as one of four very competitive boys (they are all professional athletes), his journey as a NRL rugby player, what inspired his epic trek and where he plans to go next as continues to give back to the community. Chris is taking part in the “Face Your Fears” campaign, aimed at raising funds and awareness for domestic and family violence charity, RizeUp Australia this September. The challenge aims to encourage other people to join the campaign, RizeUp and face their own fears in the name of charity, visit www.felicitycohen.com/chris-walker-walk-of-a-lifetime/ to donate for a great cause.

Property market industry leader John Gibson looks at the national property clock, both residential and commercial, and makes a very strong case for Brisbane and also investment and lifestyle opportunities on the Sunshine Coast.And we ask the question: you have $5 until your next pay cheque, do you buy a coffee or a lottery ticket!? We meet an extraordinary guest - Narelle - whose husband was faced with that exact question. The story will amaze you!Talking Real Estate with John Gibson is dedicated to Chris Walker's ‘Walk of a Lifetime'Former NRL player, Chris Walker, is taking on his biggest challenge to date as he sets out to walk from Cairns to the Gold Coast via State of Origin Game 2. Along the way he's rallying Australians across the nation as he raises money for charities which have been overwhelmed by the Covid crisis. Chris' beneficiaries are: Beyond Blue, RizeUp, Alcohol and Drug Foundation, and Global Awakening.A brutal 1,757 kms over 65 days, Chris is walking for Australian individuals, families and communities reeling from the long lasting impact of Covid-19 (which isn't over yet). For this mammoth challenge, Walker is fighting back and fighting for those who have felt the impact of poor mental health, suicide, drug and alcohol abuse, and domestic violence. They're causes close to Chris' heart as he has witnessed how easily these issues can slowly creep up and take over a person's life.Click below to donate to Chris' efforts:Charity link fund my challengewww.fundmychallenge.com/challenges/

Police appear much more likely to charge people for drug use/possession in Hawke's Bay, Gisborne, Auckland city and the Bay of Plenty than in the rest of the country.The regional differences are revealed as the Government reviews an aspect of the Misuse of Drugs Act to ensure police discretion for charging drug users is applied consistently across the country.It follows a law change in 2019, which clarified that police shouldn't prosecute for drug use if a therapeutic approach would be "more beneficial to the public interest".The Herald has been tracking police use of discretion following the law change, and previous data showed police becoming less inclined to charge people for drug use/possession as their most serious offence.New police data released to the Herald under the Official Information Act reveal how police, by region, use their discretion when they come across people with or using drugs.People are often charged with drug use/possession along with other offences, so a better picture of the use of police discretion is captured when that is the most serious offence - which includes when it is the only offence.In the four months since the election - when Health Minister Andrew Little sent a clear message that such people should almost automatically not be charged - police charged fewer than one in five people, or 18 per cent.The rest were given either a warning or an alternative measure, such as a Youth Aid referral, family group conference, alternative action plan, community justice panel, or no further action.Police were least inclined to charge for drug use/possession as the most serious offence in Tasman (7 per cent), Waitemata (7 per cent), Southern (8 per cent), and Central (10 per cent).Drug Foundation executive director Sarah Helm said the regional differences amounted to a "postcode lottery, which depends on the district commander's interpretation of the law and the arresting officer's possible biases".The foundation has been pushing for decriminalisation of drug use, and she said leaving it up to police wasn't fair on them."They're being asked to assess whether a person would benefit from a health intervention, and whether such an intervention would be in the 'public interest'. It is the role of Parliament to determine the law, not an individual officer."Little said the data was "interesting"."The exercise of police discretion under this legislation is under review by both the Ministry of Health and the Police, and I am awaiting that review. I expect it to explain the reason for regional difference."The review is expected in August.Eastern district charges most for cannabis and PFor the four months since the election, 10 per cent of those nationwide facing cannabis use/possession charges as their most serious offence were actually charged.For methamphetamine, the proportion charged was 54 per cent.Police in the Eastern district were again most likely to charge people for cannabis use/possession (21 per cent), as well as methamphetamine use/possession (68 per cent).The next regions with the highest proportion of those charged for cannabis use/possession were Canterbury (14 per cent) and Counties-Manukau (14 per cent), while the lowest were Waitemata (2 per cent) and Tasman (4 per cent), followed by Waikato, Central and Southern districts (all on about 6 per cent).Bay of Plenty (65 per cent) followed Eastern as the district with the highest proportion of those charged for methamphetamine use/possession, with Northland (64 per cent) next and then Auckland City (63 per cent).The lowest, at less than half the rate as Eastern, was Waitemata (30 per cent), followed by Southern (33 per cent), Counties-Manukau (36 per cent), and Waikato (39 per cent).According to the latest drug-testing wastewater results - for the first quarter of 2020 - the most per-capita use of methamphetamine was in Northland, followed by Eastern and Bay of Plenty.The Labour Party's election manifesto included a pro...

This week we check in with Chris Walker on his Walk of a Lifetime Challenge and find out how he is giving back to some of Australia's most iconic charities while doing so.    Chris will cover almost 2,000km over 66 days from Cairns to the Gold Coast to raise much-needed funds for Beyond Blue, RizeUp Australia, the Alcohol and Drug Foundation and Global Awakening Fund.   To donate and get behind Chris's Walk of a Lifetime challenge or for more information, download the Fund My Challenge app from Google Play, the App Store or visit fundmychallenge.com   Charities Chris Walker is supporting @rizeupanz @beyondblueoffical @alcoholdrugfdn @globalawakeningfund   To be notified when a new podcast goes live, head over to our Spotify, YouTube, SoundCloud or iTunes channel and subscribe.

Resources from this episode: https://www.vox.com/2015/2/24/8094759/alcohol-marijuana (How scientists rank drugs from most to least dangerous — and why the rankings are flawed | Vox) Required Reading: https://www.mind.org.uk/media/7142/recreational-drugs-and-alcohol-2016-pdf.pdf (Recreational drugs and alcohol | Mind for better mental health) https://www.vox.com/2014/9/25/6842187/drug-schedule-list-marijuana (The federal drug scheduling system, explained) https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/#wheel (Facts - Drug Wheel | Alcohol and Drug Foundation) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y8TGLLQlD9M (President Nixon Declares Drug Abuse "Public Enemy Number One" - Richard Nixon Foundation | YouTube) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJUXLqNHCaI (Why The War on Drugs Is A Huge Failure | Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell) https://www.discovermagazine.com/mind/what-science-knows-about-marijuanas-health-benefits (What Science Knows About Marijuana's Health Benefits | Discover Magazine) https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/caffeine/ (Caffeine | Alcohol and Drug Foundation) https://www.drugabuse.gov/drug-topics/criminal-justice/science-drug-use-resource-justice-sector (The Science of Drug Use | DrugAbuse.gov) https://www.mpp.org/states/ (State Policy - Marijuana Policy Institute) https://weedreader.com/marijuana-laws-the-past-present-and-future-infographic/ (Marijuana Laws: The Past, Present And Future (Infographic)) https://inhabitat.com/infographic-what-does-your-brain-look-like-on-lsd/ (INFOGRAPHIC: What your brain looks like on LSD) https://www.drugwise.org.uk/what-are-the-dangers-from-using-drugs/ (What are the dangers of using drugs? | DrugWise.org) https://www.drugabuse.gov/drug-topics (Drug Topics - National Institute on Drug Abuse) https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/opioids/what-are-opioids.html (What Are Opioids? | Johns Hopkins Medicine) https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/epidemic/index.html (Opioid Overdose: Understanding the Epidemic | CDC) https://www.historic-uk.com/HistoryUK/HistoryofBritain/First-Opium-War/ (First Opium War - Historic UK) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aiOLkRRyrIo (Could America Finally Win the War On Drugs... With Economics? | Economics Explained - YouTube) https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/jul/14/drugs-policy-heroin-psychoactive-substances (Here's why there are no 'good' or 'bad' drugs – not even heroin | The Guardian) https://www.heretohelp.bc.ca/workbook/you-and-substance-use-drugs-have-the-potential-to-both-help-and-harm (Getting Clean: A 4-Quadrant Chart | HereToHelp) https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/HealthyLiving/How-drugs-affect-your-body (How Drugs affect your Body | BetterHealth)

This week we catch up with Clint Proctor, developer of the app Check Me. Clint is a Community Development Officer at the Alcohol and Drug Foundation, and development coach for the Box Hill Hawks in the Victorian Football League whom are the reserves team for Australian Football League Team Hawthorn. Clint has developed an App called Check Me. Ready for launch, the Check Me App provides an amazing and non invasive method to assist with mental health well being for both sport people and employees, from ground roots level to professional level athletes. We enjoyed catch up with Clint and hearing all about his development, and had a great chat on life in general. We know you will enjoy this episode

Walker's on. Today we chat to former NRL star Chris Walker about his charity fundraiser walk from Cairns to the Gold Coast where he's raising money for Beyond Blue, Rize Up, Alcohol and Drug Foundation, and Global Awakening. DONATE TO CHRIS WALKER'S CHALLENGE DONATE TO CHRIS WALKER'S CHALLENGE DONATE TO CHRIS WALKER'S CHALLENGE DONATE TO CHRIS WALKER'S CHALLENGE DONATE TO CHRIS WALKER'S CHALLENGE DONATE TO CHRIS WALKER'S CHALLENGE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Drug Foundation organised a symposium at Parliament this week and one of the keynote speakers was Professor Nicole Lee from the National Drug Research Institute in Australia. She discusses the rising harm caused by meth.  

The Drug Foundation organised a symposium at Parliament this week and one of the keynote speakers was Professor Nicole Lee from the National Drug Research Institute in Australia. She discusses the rising harm caused by meth.  

The boys get an update with Chris Walker who is undertaking the 'Walk of a Lifetime' raising money for Beyond Blue, Rize Up Australia, Alcohol and Drug Foundation of Australia and Global Awakening. The boys ask if the form of his nephew Sam Walker is surprising at all and how the Brisbane Broncos lost the young talent.

More than 25 health and social service organisations have banded together to call on the Government to repeal the country's drug laws, to drop penalties for use and to treat the use of drugs as a health issue.The groups, including the New Zealand Medical Association, the Mental Health Foundation, the Public Health Association, the Maori Law Society, the Drug Foundation, Hapai te Hauora, and JustSpeak, have sent an open letter to Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, Health Minister Andrew Little and Justice Minister Kris Faafoi.JustSpeak, a youth advocacy group for criminal justice reform, have spearheaded the letter and director Tania Sawicki Mead said the current law, the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975, was not fit for purpose.Tania Sawicki Mead joined Phil Gifford & Tyland Adams on the show.LISTEN ABOVE

A high-powered group of 25 individuals and organisations say its time for the Misuse of Drugs Act to be overhauled. The group has signed an open letter to the Prime Minister calling for drug use to be treated as a health and social issue. Among the signatories are the Medical Association, Māori health providers, and the Mental Health Foundation - who say the 1975 act is built around criminalising all drug offences and is fundamentally outdated. Sarah Helm is executive director of the New Zealand Drug Foundation. She spoke to Susie Ferguson.

More than 25 health and social service organisations have banded together to call on the Government to repeal the country's drug laws, to drop penalties for use and to treat the use of drugs as a health issue.The groups, including the New Zealand Medical Association, the Mental Health Foundation, the Public Health Association, the Maori Law Society, the Drug Foundation, Hapai te Hauora, and JustSpeak, have sent an open letter to Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, Health Minister Andrew Little and Justice Minister Kris Faafoi.JustSpeak, a youth advocacy group for criminal justice reform, have spearheaded the letter and director Tania Sawicki Mead said the current law, the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975, was not fit for purpose."To prevent harm, the Government needs to put into gear a pragmatic response by putting energy and resources into drug treatment services and community support, not punishment. "She said support for the change came from both sides of the last year's cannabis debate and referendum – in which a bid to legalise recreational cannabis was lost by 48.4 per cent in favour to 50.7 per cent against.The clinical director of the National Hauora Coalition Dr Rawiri McKree Jansen said the current criminal justice approach to drugs caused harm and that harm inequitably impacted on Māori."Drug convictions and the associated stigma have lifelong consequences, particularly on access to housing, education and employment. This, in turn, can have significant impacts on hauora [wellbeing], not only for individuals but also for their whanau."Drugs Foundation executive director Sarah Helm commended the Government for recent moves to make festival drug testing permanent, and for amendments to the Misuse of Drugs Act which set in law a police discretion to not prosecute a person for use if a therapeutic approach would be more beneficial to the public interest.But she said the next step was a rewrite of the law that was grounded in an evidence, health-based approach and harm reduction rather than a punitive approach for users – effectively decriminalisation."We have been almost fooling ourselves that we have been addressing drug use in New Zealand just by banning it because we know that convictions do nothing to deter use."While we've been doing that, we've had the blinkers on to everything else that needs to be in place."At present there was very little help for problem users until they became addicted and even then, treatment was limited."It's mad. You start using a substance and you can't get any help until you either end up needing treatment – even then there's not enough places – or you end up in a situation where you are convicted and you may or may not get treatment if you end up in some facility.She said many groups that had been opposed to legalisation in the referendum had not opposed decriminalisation.She said they were not talking about legalising trafficking or dealing in drugs."That would still be illegal in our current model.""Our recommended approach to decriminalisation is that possession is still illegal but carries no penalties. You would get a warning like a speeding ticket," she said.If repeated there could be a conviction, and if it involved a higher quality, it might activate a supply charge."The groups which have signed the letter to the Government are:ActionStationAmnesty InternationalAuckland City MissionChild Poverty Action GroupDapaanzDrugs, Health and Development ProjectHapai Te HauoraHelen Clark FoundationJustSpeakMake It LegalMental Health FoundationMaori Law SocietyNational Hauora CoalitionNZ Medical AssociationNZ University Students' AssociationNZ Drug FoundationPeople Against Prisons AotearoaPublic Health AssociationTe Hauora o Turanganui a KiwaTe Rau OraWellington City MissionWesley Community ActionYes 2020text by Audrey Young, NZ Herald

Today you'll hear about The Narcotic Farm in Lexington, Kentucky, addiction, science, wacky graham crackers, jazz, prison, unethical medical experimentation, and a weird diversion about William S. Burroughs that I really didn't plan on talking about but that made me feel very indignant.Connect on Facebook or at the Failed Utopia website.Links & ResourcesAddiction Help:USAThe Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) findtreatment.gov or 1-800-662-HELPThe National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) can also help with drug and alcohol abuse.Faces & Voices of RecoveryThe Partnership at Drugfree.org for parents of teens (1-855-378-4373)NIDA's DrugPubs Research Dissemination Center UKA list of UK resources CanadaA list of helplines for provinces and territories in CanadaAustraliaAlcohol and Drug Foundation 1300 85 85 84Mental Health Help (USA):National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Crisis Text Line: text HOME to 741 741Domestic Violence Helpline: 1-800-799-7233VictimConnect, a referral helpline for victims of crime: 1-855-484-2846For veterans, Make The Connection Official website of The Narcotic Farm documentary and book BBC's Hitting the High Notes (Dr. Sally Marlow's excellent program about jazz musicians, addiction, and The Narcotic Farm includes interviews, footage, and some recordings of jazz concerts at Narco.) Claire Clark's The Recovery Revolution: The Battle Over Addiction Treatment in the United StatesWilliam White's Slaying the Dragon: The History of Addiction Treatment and Recovery in AmericaWritten and produced by Anna RobertsBurning palm tree artwork by Perry VasquezIntro music by Elliot MiddletonSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/failedutopia/donations

Can you drug test a cleaning employee if you suspect they are high? And should you drug test them if they get in an accident driving from one job to another? Cleaning employees cost their businesses millions of dollars each year by showing up to the job under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Here is what you need to know to protect your residential cleaning service business. Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown *** PROMISED LINKS AND GOOD KARMA RESOURCES *** Substance and Abuse hotline - Free and Confidential - 866-246-1095 SAMHSA National Helpline Confidential free help, from public health agencies, to find substance use treatment and information. 800-662-4357 Prime Screen-5 Panel Multi Drug Urine Test Compact Cup - https://amzn.to/2O61ThA 10 Pack Easy@Home 12 Panel Test Cup Kit with Temperature Strip - Instant Urine Test - https://amzn.to/3sQQKAg THC/EDIBLES Detection KIT - https://amzn.to/3e6DzXL 5 Pack Identify Diagnostics Testing Instantly for 10 Different Drugs THC, COC, OXY, MOP, AMP, BAR, BZO, MET, MTD, PCP ID-CP10 - https://amzn.to/3sQKUP4 These good karma links connect you to affiliated sites that offer products or services that relate to today’s show. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support pays our production costs to bring you these free daily tips. THANK YOU. *** MORE VIDEOS ON THIS TOPIC *** Drugs and the Workplace - Drug Education Network - https://youtu.be/eDbn57hUB4M Drug and Alcohol Use in the Workplace - SafetyTraningVideos - https://youtu.be/s3aOfJPBneY Alcohol & Drugs in the Workplace - Alcohol and Drug Foundation - https://youtu.be/U3f8VWoCiwo What You Need To Know About Drugs and Alcohol In The Workplace - Drug Education Network - https://youtu.be/LX4kUipfqp8 No place for drugs and alcohol - Safe Work Australia - https://youtu.be/bB6qm7yvwM0 *** RATE THIS SHOW *** https://sotellus.com/r/savvy-cleaner *** RATE THIS PODCAST *** https://ratethispodcast.com/askahousecleaner *** TRAINING & CLEANING CERTIFICATION*** https://savvycleaner.com/join *** MOST REQUESTED LIST OF CLEANING STUFF I USE *** https://www.Amazon.com/shop/AngelaBrown ***FUNNY CLEANING SHIRTS – THANK YOU GIFTS FOR MAIDS*** Daily Giveaway - https://funnycleaningshirts.com *** CONNECT WITH ANGELA ON SOCIAL MEDIA *** LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/savvycleaner/ Facebook: https://Facebook.com/SavvyCleaner Twitter: https://Twitter.com/SavvyCleaner Instagram: https://Instagram.com/SavvyCleaner Pinterest: https://Pinterest.com/SavvyCleaner *** GOT A QUESTION FOR A SHOW? *** Email it to Angela[at]AskaHouseCleaner.com Voice Mail: Click on the blue button at https://askahousecleaner.com *** FREE EBOOK – HOW TO START YOUR OWN HOUSE CLEANING COMPANY *** http://amzn.to/2xUAF3Z *** PROFESSIONAL HOUSE CLEANERS PRIVATE FACEBOOK GROUP *** https://www.facebook.com/groups/ProfessionalHouseCleaners/ *** VRBO AIRBNB CLEANING FACEBOOK GROUP *** https://www.facebook.com/groups/VRBO.Airbnb.Cleaning/ *** LOOKING FOR WAY TO GET MORE CLEANING LEADS *** https://housecleaning360.com *** WHAT IS ASK A HOUSE CLEANER? *** Ask a House Cleaner is a daily show where you get to ask your house cleaning questions and we provide answers. Learn how to clean. How to start a cleaning business. Marketing and advertising tips for your cleaning service. How to find top quality house cleaners, housekeepers, and maids. Employee motivation tactics. Strategies to boost your cleaning clientele. And cleaning company expansion help. Our host, Angela Brown, a professional house cleaner for 25 years, ran and managed one of the largest independently owned cleaning companies in the Southeast United States. She is the CEO and founder of Savvy Cleaner Training for House Cleaners and Maids. *** SPONSORSHIPS & BRANDS *** We do work with sponsors and brands. If you are interested in working with us and you have a product or service that is cohesive to the cleaning industry read this: https://savvycleaner.com/product-review *** THIS SHOW WAS SPONSORED BY *** SAVVY CLEANER - House Cleaner Training and Certification – https://savvycleaner.com MY CLEANING CONNECTION – Your hub for all things cleaning – https://mycleaningconnection.com SAVVY PERKS – Employee Benefits for Small Business Owners – https://savvyperks.com VRBO AIRBNB CLEANING – Cleaning tips and strategies for your short-term rental https://TurnoverCleaningTips.com FUNNY CLEANING SHIRTS – Incentive and thank you gifts for house cleaners and maids. https://FunnyCleaningShirts.com *** VIDEO CREDITS *** VIDEO/AUDIO EDITING: Kristin O https://savvycleaner.com/reviews/kristin-o HOST: Angela Brown https://savvycleaner.com/reviews/angela-brown PRODUCER: Savvy Cleaner https://savvycleaner.com

Actress & Playwright Lois Robbins is Baring It All with Call Me Adam about her work on HBO's Sex and the City, TV Land's Younger, and ABC's All My Children and One Life To Live. Lois also discusses her legacy, lessons learned, & philanthropic work. Lois has worked with such Hollywood luminaries as Vanessa Redgrave, Jonathan Rhys, Casper Van Dien, Molly Ringwald, Kathy Najimy, Meg Ryan, and Melanie Griffith. In 2019, Lois debuted her solo play L.O.V.E.R at NYC's Signature Theatre, directed by the esteemed Karen Carpenter & produced by the legendary Daryl Roth. Connect with Lois: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube Like What You Hear? Join my Patreon Family to get backstage perks including advanced notice of interviews, the ability to submit a question to my guests, behind-the-scene videos, and so much more! Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit: https://callmeadam.com for more my print/video interviews Special Thanks: My Patreon Family for their continued support: Angelo, Reva and Alan, Marianne, Danielle, Tara, and The Golden Gays NYC. Join the fun at https://patreon.com/callmeadamnyc. Theme Song by Bobby Cronin (https://bit.ly/2MaADvQ) Podcast Logo by Liam O'Donnell (https://bit.ly/2YNI9CY) Edited by Drew Kaufman (https://bit.ly/2OXqOnw) Outro Music Underscore by CueTique (Website: https://bit.ly/31luGmT, Facebook: @CueTique) More on Lois: Lois Robbins is a native New Yorker and accomplished actress. Lois recently shot the independent filmThe Aspern Papers, in Venice, Italy alongside Vanessa Redgrave, Jolie Richardson, and Jonathan Rhys Meyers. She also stars in the film Shepherd, which filmed in Budapest in 2017, directed by Lynn Roth, and the feature One Nation Under God with Casper Van Dien, Kevin Sorbo, and Antonio Sabato Jr. Lois will also be starring in the feature YA adventure film Montauk alongside Molly Ringwald. She can be seen starring in the independent films Blowtorch, opposite Billy Baldwin, Kathy Najimy and Armand Assante, Juvie alongside Eric Roberts, and in Ithaca, Meg Ryan’s directorial debut with Sam Shepherd, Melanie Griffith, and Meg Ryan. On the stage Lois has starred in two world-premiere musical comedies: My History of Marriage, by Academy Award and two-time Grammy winner David Shire, Lee Kalcheim and Samuel Kalcheim presented by the 2011 New York Music Theatre Festival; and A Time for Love by David Shire and Richard Maltby, Jr. at the Rubicon Theatre Company at the Roundabout Theater’s Black Box. She also starred as Stephanie Dickinson in Cactus Flower at the Westside Arts Theater produced by Daryl Roth. In the fall of 2019, Lois starred in her self-penned one-act comic play titled: L.O.V.E.R. The play is a riff on childhood, adolescence, and finally adulthood from a grown-up woman’s point of view. Directed by Karen Carpenter, L.O.V.E.R. premiered at the Signature Theatre in New York City. Lois has starred in productions at the Eugene O’Neil Theater Center, Goodspeed Opera, Trinity Repertory, Studio Arena Theater, Rubicon Theater, Schoolhouse Theater, and Roundabout Theater. She has also graced the silver screen in Town and Country, The Screamaker, Hudson River Blues, and Motherhood. Lois is best known for her roles on daytime television including One Life to Live, Loving, Ryan’s Hope, and All My Children. Her additional television credits include guest shots in: Sex And The City, Law & Order, Kingpin, Once And Again, Law & Order SVU, and Blue Bloods. Lois’ most recent television work was the recurring role of "Penelope" on Younger. Lois places a high importance on philanthropic work; she is actively involved with Evelyn H. Lauder’s Breast Cancer Center, the Plastic Pollution Coalition, Alzheimer’s Drug Foundation, and the Lung Cancer Research Foundation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Drug Foundation says a medicinal cannabis specialist GP clinic that has opened in Wellington will help stop patients running afoul of the law by buying off the black market. Very few doctors have expert knowledge of the products, and the large majority of GPs are unsure about prescribing it. Hamish Cardwell has more.

We had a great conversation with actress Lois Robbins on The Chris & Sandy Show. We talked about many things from family, her acting career, sacrifices, she told some great stories to a whole lot more! This was a very fun conversation. Click the play button to listen to the podcast!Lois Robbins is a native New Yorker and an accomplished actress. Ms. Robbins was most recently seen in the independent film The Aspern Papers, alongside Vanessa Redgrave, Jolie Richardson and Jonathan Rhys Meyers. Best known for her roles on daytime television including One Life to Live, Loving, Ryan's Hope and All My Children, Ms. Robbins recently played the recurring role of art collector Penelope in the fifth season of the hit TV Land series Younger. Notable television credits include guest roles in Sex And The City, Law & Order, Kingpin, Once And Again, Law & Order SVU and Blue Bloods. Ms. Robbins places a high importance on philanthropic work; she is actively involved with Evelyn H. Lauder's Breast Cancer Center, the Plastic Pollution Coalition, Alzheimer's Drug Foundation and the Lung Cancer Research Foundation.

Infectious disease doctor and researcher Dr. Lawrence Purpura discusses herd immunity and the coronavirus pandemic. Then, learn about how psilocybin therapy may be able to treat depression, and why credit card chips are safer than magnetic strips.  Additional resources from Dr. Lawrence Purpura: Lawrence Purpura's publications on ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/scientific-contributions/Lawrence-Purpura-2115048786 Interview with Dr. Purpura about his upcoming appearance on NYT's "The Weekly": https://icap.columbia.edu/profile-icap-fellow-lawrence-purpura-to-feature-in-nyt-documentary-on-hulu-and-fx/ Columbia University's Division of Infectious Diseases: https://www.infectiousdiseases.cumc.columbia.edu/ What's the deal with psilocybin therapy by Kelsey Donk Davis AK, Barrett FS, May DG, et al. Effects of Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy on Major Depressive Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Psychiatry. Published online November 04, 2020. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2772630  Psychedelic Treatment with Psilocybin Relieves Major Depression, Study Shows. (2020, November 4). Johns Hopkins Medicine Newsroom. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/newsroom/news-releases/psychedelic-treatment-with-psilocybin-relieves-major-depression-study-shows  Dessem, M. (2020, November 4). D.C. and Oregon Move to Decriminalize Shrooms. Slate Magazine; Slate. https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2020/11/oregon-washington-dc-shrooms-psilocybin-decriminalized-measure-81-109-mushrooms.html  Psilocybin as a therapeutic treatment - Alcohol and Drug Foundation. (2018). Adf.org.au. https://adf.org.au/insights/psilocybin-therapeutic-treatment/  Lewis, T. (2020, January 16). Johns Hopkins Scientists Give Psychedelics the Serious Treatment. Scientific American. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/johns-hopkins-scientists-give-psychedelics-the-serious-treatment/  Treating Depression With Magic Mushrooms. (2019). Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/your-brain-food/201912/treating-depression-magic-mushrooms  Why Are Credit Card Chips Safer Than Magnetic Strips? by author Reuben Westmaas TDECU. (2017). Why Are Chip Cards More Secure Than Swiping? Tdecu.org. https://blog.tdecu.org/why-are-chip-cards-more-secure-than-swiping  ITRC Data Breach Overview 2005 to 2017. (2018). Identity Theft Resource Center. https://www.idtheftcenter.org/images/breach/MultiYearOverview20052017.pdf  Subscribe to Curiosity Daily to learn something new every day with Cody Gough and Ashley Hamer. You can also listen to our podcast as part of your Alexa Flash Briefing; Amazon smart speakers users, click/tap “enable” here: https://www.amazon.com/Curiosity-com-Curiosity-Daily-from/dp/B07CP17DJY  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

God bless the 20 year old Young Greens activist who wants a citizen initiated referendum on the decriminalisation of cannabis.All he’s doing is highlighting how the government got this wrong first time round.How much the pro lobby shot itself in the foot with its attempts to legalise? Mixed messaging, confusing misleading statements about medicinal, the advantage it would give big business, the smattering of weed shops around the country. It over shot the mark, went too far, and it didn’t convince enough New Zealanders to make it a reality.It should've focused on decriminalisation not legalisation in the first place. It should have kept the messaging simple. But that’s all history now. The fact is, they lost.But it was close. So close it’s not remotely surprising that someone has popped up and said let’s try that again.A citizen-initiated referendum needs 355,000 signatures within a year to get to referendum status.It’s not binding - and here’s the key - it’s up to the government to decide at that point if they want to go ahead with it.Two problems here. One, even if it gets enough signatures, historically governments don’t do anything with citizen initiated referendums other than ignore them.Two, they’ve missed the point. The government has already put in place policing measures which see most cannabis offences overlooked, given a warning - anything but actual prosecution.They’re effectively decriminalising it by proxy anyway. The number of people arrested for cannabis offences has been in steady decline. Police know not to rush people to courts with a cannabis charge. Unless it’s attached to a string of other more serious offences, you’re highly unlikely to find yourself in court having smoked a joint.This referendum showed that almost half of New Zealanders are cool with that. But what it also showed was that a greater number of Kiwis just don’t want weed for sale on their main street - they don’t want it normalised. It’s not to say they don’t know and accept weed is all around them, it’s just they didn’t necessarily want a government mandating it and saying it’s OK go right ahead, no worries.So will this government - with its vote catching move to the centre - choose to bash us over the head with cannabis issues again?I wouldn't have thought so. But the Greens activist floating this idea says he hasn’t talked to Chloe Swarbrick yet. Maybe if he gets her on board (Helen Clark won’t be far behind surely), then probably the Drug Foundation , and you may just get enough momentum and media coverage to spark the whole thing up again.But I can’t help thinking of all the things we could be getting signatures over for important referendums in this country, decriminalising something that’s barely criminalised as it is, seems pointless.So maybe the lesson here for those on the losing side of this debate now is - just let it go.

In preliminary election results, the cannabis referendum failed to get across the line. On Friday at 2pm we'll find out whether it might be successful after all now that 500,000 special votes have been counted. Tuari Potiki is chair of the Drug Foundation.

Well what a relief Friday was.The right result in the cannabis referendum – although it’s preliminary and given how this year’s gone I wouldn’t rule anything out in terms of upsets or dramatic swings... it could still tip over to a yes with specials, but it’s a very very long shot.Chloe says she’s proud of her campaign, but critics would argue she didn’t have one – apart from her appearing on every media platform she could. For a Greens backed referendum it probably needed more Greens than just her pushing it.I found the pro-campaign heavily one sided. It was bolstered by the Drug Foundation and Helen Clark... all of whom put out endless amounts of information, or should I say misinformation – from it being about medicinal, to it coming out of the hands of gangs -which was never going to happen. There was a lot of propaganda peddled and I worried New Zealanders would fall for it if they didn’t do their own research. The preliminary results reassuringly show Kiwis didn’t fall for it. Although Chloe argues it’s on a knife edge – 53% to 46% is not a knife edge.. it’s a gap of 7 percent. She also lashed out at Jacinda Ardern for not stating which way she’d vote, that in some way the acolytes of Jacinda would've followed her like sheep if she’d promoted a yes vote. But the PM didn’t want to alienate centrist voters, she sat on the fence with it because that’s what populists do. Jacinda wanted to win votes more than she wanted to win the cannabis referendum and that’s the result she got.Decriminalisation may’ve worked, but I think legalization was a bridge too far. I don’t know why we’d want to rush something as serious as this, I would’ve thought waiting to see how other countries go, would be the smart move. Why would we want our little nation to be guinea pigs for something as serious as drug reform?But the fact it got pitched in the first place as a do or die ultimatum of the Greens supporting the Coalition government last time round, shows the sort of stuff the Greens are obsessed with. It only reinforces how important it is they’re nowhere near the reins of power this time round. And Jacinda Ardern knows it. The greatest thing those soft centre voters offered the country by ticking red this year to keep the Greens out, is that we don’t have Julie Anne Genter in charge of anything. For that we should be eternally grateful.The new cabinet line-up gets announced today and you have to wonder if Phil Twyford will remain in charge of economic development. Hopefully he doesn’t, but the PM seems to back him, even though he’s failed at pretty much everything he’s turned his hand to. And that will be the true test of this new government… how much progress actually gets made, how much delivery we actually see, how much they abandon ‘transformation’ for treading water. But also, how much hustle they put up with from the Greens… who’re still promising to push their wealth tax agenda. It’ll be an interesting 3 years. I’m just grateful there won’t be more Kiwis stoned than usual to witness it.

So tomorrow we get the preliminary results of the referendums.If we believe the polls, Cannabis legalisation won’t pass and End of Life choice will.But can we believe the polls?And which polls? The main ones had support for the Cannabis referendum dropping, and opposition to it rising.But then the week before we went to vote, Helen Clark and the Drug Foundation produced their own poll showing support for cannabis legalisation was up, it was ahead, that it was close, but that it would indeed get through.So who do we believe?Well after the election .. it's anyone's guess. I didn't see Chloe Swarbrick winning Auckland central either. Many didn't. Even she admitted there's value in being under estimated. So have we under estimated support for cannabis legalisation? And has the swing left in not just Auckland Central but across the country, indicated a yes vote may indeed clinch it?I'll be disappointed if it's a yes vote that wins. I'll be disappointed because of the amount of misinformation that was spread like wildfire, the prominence of the pro-campaigners in mainstream media, the lack of balance. I don’t feel like it was a fair fight.We heard more often about medicinal - which we weren't even voting on - than we did from those in the community battling the mental health harms it causes. We didn't hear enough from all the drug detectives and police coming forward to say it was a gateway drug, that it decimated lower socio economic communities, that it would stay in the black market and in the hands of gangs no matter how many shops the government allowed to pop up around the country.We didn’t hear enough from the law enforcers who were coming forward saying people don’t get locked up for marijuana, that very few are punished through the criminal system just because of weed, more often than not there’s a string of other more serious charges attached. People are simply not in jail for smoking a joint.We didn't hear enough from the mental health workers, pyschs and nurses who were coming forward saying that they already couldn't cope with the backlog of cases needing help due to cannabis harms. That they’d witnessed first hand the slippery slope of this addiction and what it could lead to. The families ravaged by it, the foster parents whose children lamented their bio parents use and obsession with ‘the green tobacco’ as some kids called it.Many of these stories never made the light of day. There seemed to be an agenda early on to promote cannabis legalisation as a good thing - and anyone railing against it was labelled as some kind of moral crusader backing the wrong horse. I’m not naive enough to believe that cannabis isn’t already all around us, but so is domestic violence, it doesn’t mean we have to normalise it. It’s the normalising of it I’m concerned about, the message that sends our young people.So although I can’t pick which way tomorrow will go, I am crossing my fingers and toes that New Zealanders saw through the propaganda, and ticked no.

Fun facts and cool info about your morning cup of joe.Sources for nerds:Caffeine - Alcohol and Drug Foundation. (2020). Alcohol and Drug Foundation. https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/caffeine/Sense, T. C. (2018, March 18). Starbucks Macchiato vs. Normal Macchiato. Craft Sense. https://craftsense.co/coffee/starbucks-macchiato-vs-normal-macchiato/The History of Coffee. (2020). National Coffee Association USA. https://www.ncausa.org/about-coffee/history-of-coffee#:%7E:text=An%20Ethiopian%20Legend&text=There%2C%20legend%20says%20the%20goat,want%20to%20sleep%20at%20night.Zimmer, C. (2014, September 4). How Caffeine Evolved to Help Plants Survive and Help People Wake Up.Https://Www.Nytimes.Com/#publisher. https://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/04/science/how-caffeine-evolved-to-help-plants-survive-and-help-people-wake-up.html#:%7E:text=When%20coffee%20leaves%20die%20and,on%20their%20leaves%20and%20beans.Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wtfwithlily)

Mary-Margaret caught up with the Drug Foundation’s Ross Bell, who actually announced his resignation this morning. Ross discussed whether or not the electoral commission’s campaigning has been sufficient at informing voters about the choice they will make at the referendum.

The coronavirus pandemic has led to some positive improvements in health and well being. Parents have reported spending more time with their kids, others say slowing down has helped calm chaotic schedules. But it has also led to an increase in alcohol consumption. So why are parents drinking more, and is it too much? Craig Martin is the Head of Evidence and Innovation at the Alcohol and Drug Foundation. He talks about the most recent research, and what is known about the way parents are drinking.

In this episode, I'll be discussing how gender relates to crime including how traditional gender roles have affected an individual's potential criminality. Then I'll review the liberal and radical schools of thought regarding feminist criminology. Lastly, I'll explore the biggest problems we are facing in regards to prostitution and sex trafficking. Link to The Typology of Modern Slavery: https://polarisproject.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Polaris-Typology-of-Modern-Slavery-1.pdf Sources for today's episode: ACF. (2020). Federal Government Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking. Office on Trafficking in Persons: An Office of the Administration for Children and Families.* ADF. (2020). Overview of Decriminalization vs. Legalization. Alcohol and Drug Foundation.* Bureau of Public Affairs. (2004). Link Between Prostitution and Sex Trafficking. U.S. Department of State.* Charles, J. B. (2018). 3 Cities Lead Fight Against Human Trafficking. Governing.* Cullen, F., Agnew, R., Wilcox, P. (2014). Criminological Theory: Past to Present (5th Edition). New York, NY: Oxford University Press. Neal Davis. (2020). What is Compelling Prostitution in Texas. Neal Davis Law Firm.* New York. (2020). New York Prostitution Laws. Find Law.* NIJ. (2009). Prostitution: Pathways, Problems, and Prevention. National Institute of Justice.* Polaris. (2017). The Typology of Modern Slavery. Polaris.*Schwartzbach, M. (2020). Prostitution Laws. Criminal Defense Lawyer.* Texas. (2020). Texas Prostitution Laws. Find Law.* Uncategorized. (2020). Facts About Human Trafficking in the US. Deliver Fund.* *Please email me at crisisofcrime@gmail.com for links to websites, the description box has a limited number of characters it allows. 

Sam Keitaanpaa is a NT born, raised and educated pharmacist currently working in community pharmacy and undertaking his PhD in access to smoking cessation medicines and is the Chair of the Health Providers Alliance Northern Territory as well as the Vice President of the SA/NT Branch of the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia. Sam is a strong advocate for harm minimsation approaches and has delivered education to patients and health professionals around Codeine rescheduling, Medicinal Cannabis, Opioid Pharmacotherapy and supply programs, Performance and Image Enhancing Drugs and Culturally Safe practice. Sam has also sought to improve the access to medicines by Territorians living rough and those in residential rehabilitation and is currently working on a community naloxone awareness program. Episode 13 Illicit | Substances in use In this episode, Sam discusses illicit drugs that are being used in Australia right now, the potential harms from abusing prescriptions medications, the options available in pharmacy to deal with drug reliance (including naloxone) and where to get help when needed. 5 Indispensable Tips Harm minimisation means exactly that, it's not abstinence, it's doing something in the least risky way Know what is available, even if you don't think you want to use it yet; its easier to access later if you want Build relationships with services you are/might use for harm minimisation. Getting you know your GP/Pharmacist can make it a lot easier to engage later on things you feel less comfortable with If you don't feel you are being supported, say so. We are health professionals and if there is some personality clash, we won't take it personally Small steps. Whether you are occasionally taking drugs or it's an issue you want to tackle, just trying each time to do it a little safer, planning beforehand or replacing high risk activities with lower risk ones will eventually all add up. Links Alcohol and Drug Foundation: https://adf.org.au/ Australian Government Department of Health: https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/drugs/about-drugs/how-to-reduce-or-quit-drugs Alcohol and Other Drug hotline: 1800 250 015 Get in contact with Sam: Twitter: @SKeitaanpaa   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 6 is with Julia Whaipooti. Julia is a proper activist. She's chair of Just Speak, a network of young people speaking up for a more fair and just Aotearoa. Julia also works as an advisor to the Children's Commissioner, Judge Andrew Becroft, and sits on the board of the Drug Foundation. In this episode she talks about her background, growing up Māori in Australia, versus New Zealand, the racism that exists in our society and marrying a Pākehā woman.

In the upcoming election in September there will be a non-binding referendum on the 'Cannabis Legalisation and Control' bill.The bills purpose is to reduce cannabis-related harm to individuals, families and communities. It's not about medicinal cannabis which came into effect in April this year, but about recreational use.We wanted to hear from bothe sides of the debate starting with Ross Bell the executive director from the Drug Foundation and then Aaron Ironside the spokesperson for Say Nope to Dope.

The Drug Foundation is defending a campaign that's being labelled "misleading". The ad, which encourages people to vote "yes" in the upcoming cannabis referendum, mentions "medicinal treatment". Critics say medicinal cannabis is already able to be prescribed by GPs, and is not what the referendum is about. Ross Bell, executive director of the Drug Foundation, speaks to Corin Dann.

This week the team discuss questions raised over competition after the Asahi acquisition, and the latest Alcohol and Drug Foundation campaign. Please subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcasting app. It costs nothing and helps other beer lovers discover the podcast! Lockdown easing but brewers remain cautious Anti-alcohol lobby adopts DrinkWise campaign concept Asahi/CUB sees loss of ‘significant competitor': ACCC Asahi completes CUB acquisition One Mile Brewing makes it into BWS in NT first ABAC upholds hard lemonade complaint Small brewers the heroes of local pubs as restrictions lift The Schedule to the Excise Tariff Act 1921 Our partners Radio Brews News is proudly presented by Cryer Malt. With over 25 years in the field, Cryer Malt are dedicated to providing the finest brewing ingredients to help brewers create the foundations of a truly excellent beer. Your premium brewing partner and proud sponsors of Brews News. We thank Rallings Labels and Stickers for sponsoring this podcast. Brewers, if you are still applying self-adhesive labels to your bottles and cans, and believe that this is a sustainable solution for your packaging needs, you may want to call Rallings Labels, Stickers and Packaging and discuss your options with them. The team at Rallings will walk you through the various options available to you, that are more sustainable than applying self-adhesive labels which don't help the environment at all. Whilst they do produce self-adhesive labels for many breweries, there is a much better way to ensure that your carbon footprint is lower than what you are currently doing by utilising pre-sleeved cans. Give the guys a call on 1300 852 235 to find out more. If you like what we do at Radio Brews News you can help us out by: Sponsoring the show Reviewing us on iTunes or your favourite podcasting service Emailing us at producer@brewsnews.com.au to share your thoughts All letter writers will receive a Brews News bottle opener and go into the draw to win a mixed six-pack thanks to our good friends at Beer Cartel who sponsor our letter for the week.

This week the team discuss questions raised over competition after the Asahi acquisition, and the latest Alcohol and Drug Foundation campaign. Please subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcasting app. It costs nothing and helps other beer lovers discover the podcast! Lockdown easing but brewers remain cautious Anti-alcohol lobby adopts DrinkWise campaign concept Asahi/CUB sees loss of ‘significant competitor’: ACCC Asahi completes CUB acquisition One Mile Brewing makes it into BWS in NT first ABAC upholds hard lemonade complaint Small brewers the heroes of local pubs as restrictions lift The Schedule to the Excise Tariff Act 1921 Our partners Radio Brews News is proudly presented by Cryer Malt. With over 25 years in the field, Cryer Malt are dedicated to providing the finest brewing ingredients to help brewers create the foundations of a truly excellent beer. Your premium brewing partner and proud sponsors of Brews News. We thank Rallings Labels and Stickers for sponsoring this podcast. Brewers, if you are still applying self-adhesive labels to your bottles and cans, and believe that this is a sustainable solution for your packaging needs, you may want to call Rallings Labels, Stickers and Packaging and discuss your options with them. The team at Rallings will walk you through the various options available to you, that are more sustainable than applying self-adhesive labels which don’t help the environment at all. Whilst they do produce self-adhesive labels for many breweries, there is a much better way to ensure that your carbon footprint is lower than what you are currently doing by utilising pre-sleeved cans. Give the guys a call on 1300 852 235 to find out more. If you like what we do at Radio Brews News you can help us out by: Sponsoring the show Reviewing us on iTunes or your favourite podcasting service Emailing us at producer@brewsnews.com.au to share your thoughts All letter writers will receive a Brews News bottle opener and go into the draw to win a mixed six-pack thanks to our good friends at Beer Cartel who sponsor our letter for the week.

Recent polls on legalising recreational cannabis show support falling for the 'yes' vote, but also a significant number of undecideds who could ultimately swing the September 19 vote.The 'yes' and 'no' campaigns are pulling together funding and strategies to reach voters - including the roughly 10 per cent of undecided voters - in what is expected to be an intense and potentially ugly campaign.Both sides are already accusing the other of misinformation and of being in the financial shadow of the other.The referendum is being held as part of the Labour-Greens confidence and supply agreement, and the Government has released a draft bill detailing what legalisation would look like.This week two polls - Newshub Reid Research and 1 NEWS Colmar Brunton - both showed 39 per cent support to legalise recreational cannabis use; the 'no' vote had 48 per cent support in the former and 51 per cent support in the latter.1 News Colmar Brunton has shown 47 per cent support for legalisation in 2017, 46 per cent in 2018, and 43 and 39 per cent in two polls last year, while a Newshub Reid Research poll last year had 42 per cent supporting legalisation.Polls by Horizon have also seen a decline in support for legalisation, dropping from 60 per cent a year ago to 48 per cent in November.This morning a UMR survey commissioned by the Helen Clark Foundation, which supports legalisation, showed more support for 'yes' (46 per cent) than for 'no' (44 per cent).But after being told about controls in the draft legislation - including a purchase age of 20, restrictions on home-grown cannabis and a ban on consumption outside of private homes or specialised cafes - the 'yes' vote lifted to 50 per cent.The foundation said it showed more support for legalisation when voters were more informed, but Family First national director Bob McCoskrie said it was loaded to ask the same question either side of highlighting the proposed legal framework.McCoskrie attributed the decline of the 'yes' vote to the strength of the 'no' campaign so far, including a 24-page pamphlet that had been delivered nationwide.He added that people had mistakenly thought the referendum was about medicinal cannabis, and had changed their minds from 'yes' to 'no' when they realised it was about personal use.But Drug Foundation executive director Ross Bell said the downward trend in 'yes' support was because of "well-funded and relentless opposition scaremongering".He has asked supporters to donate funds to the 'yes' campaign, which was putting together a strategy that included billboards, TV advertising and social media.McCoskrie responded by saying he was giving the public the "facts", adding that he had little faith in the Prime Minister's expert advisory panel, headed by her Chief Science Advisor Professor Juliet Gerrard.The panel is putting together publicly-available information about the impacts of cannabis use, what changes have occurred overseas, and how applicable that might be in New Zealand.McCoskrie added that the Drug Foundation was partly Government-funded."I wish we had deep pockets," he said.The 'no' campaign was gathering a coalition of community organisations that included former cops and drug counsellors, educators and business people who would "benefit from legalisation but have kids and don't want to go down this track".New Zealand Drug Foundation executive director Ross Bell says opponents to legalising cannabis for personal use are well-funded and scaremongering. Photo / Mike ScottThe UMR poll was based on an online survey of a representative sample of 1000 New Zealanders aged 18 and over, with a margin of error of 3.1 per cent.Respondents were asked if they would vote for or against legalisation of cannabis, and were asked again after being told about measures in the draft bill including a ban on selling cannabis to anyone under 20, a purchase limit of 14 grams, and limits on how much one can grow at home.Meanw...

We had the Drug Foundations Ross Bell on earlier in the show, claiming a study they've done, with questions commissioned by the Helen Clark Foundation showing support for cannabis legalisation at 50 percent.Here's my problem with that - two independent surveys recently showed support for cannabis reform dropping to 39 percent, and yet the Drug Foundation.. an organisation propped up with government funding, with vested political interests acting as a lobby group for reform, magically produce a new survey showing support for it increases to 50, 'when people are more informed'.What does that mean? More informed by a certain bias? Well yes.According to the Foundation, 'more informed' means telling people about the controls and rules in the draft legislation, but does not include giving real life examples like the recent spike in the black market in Canada, and the huge problem with crime and the increase in youth use and addiction rates in Colorado.That's not what the Drug Foundation regards as 'informing'.And by the way, whose doing the educating and informing campaigns on our drug reform?The Drug Foundation's one of them. They're currently advertising a campaign organiser job touting '30 weeks to win on cannabis' at 72 grand a year (pro rata).So how seriously can we take this?And let's look at the mixed messages.. when Customs made a record drug bust of three tonnes of illegal drugs last year, the Drug Foundation’s Ross Bell came out and said, ironically, that if the government wants a drop in drug use, the focus needs to be on.. "stopping people from starting"… he said.And yet, this is the very same man who supports pushing go on cannabis reform.No matter what the naysayers might tell you, cannabis is often a gateway to harder drugs.. and yet the very person running the Drug Foundation in this country, says we should press go on legalising it.For people who purport to want to prevent Kiwis taking up drugs, legalising cannabis is not the way to go about it.Because it’s not just about points of law and control arguments inside wordy legislation, it’s about the perception and the reality.The message it sends to our most vulnerable.. teenagers and addicts.. that low level drug use is fine. And then what?When they’ve moved onto the heavier stuff, are we suddenly expected to swing in with our taxpayer funded education programmes, and our mental health funding, and our rehabilitation care centres, and our already run ragged counselling services and go, oh whoops, not those drugs, sorry.If the Drug Foundation’s own Ross Bell says a drop in drug use in this country is about.. 'focusing on stopping people from starting,' why then, do him and his supporters, want to open the door to cannabis?

The son of an elderly woman killed in a horrific head-on car smash caused by a drugged driver has praised the Government for bringing in new roadside drug testing laws.Last night it was announced police would get new powers to conduct random roadside drug testing, and to prosecute drugged drivers in a bid to save lives on the road.Those powers will come too late to save Ora Keene, 84, one of seven people killed in the crash near Waverley on June 27 2018.Her brother Ian Porteous, 80, his wife Rosalie, 76, and friend Brenda Williams, 79, who were with her in the car, also died.The driver of the other car, Jeremy Thompson, 28, and his five-month-old daughter Shady-Jade Thompson were killed, while Shady's sister Nivek Madams died hours later in hospital. The girls' mother Ani Nohi Nohi was the only survivor of the crash.An inquest heard Thompson had repeatedly smoked synthetic cannabis before driving that day.Ora's son Murray Keene was part of a group that has since begged for a law change so police can randomly test drivers' saliva for drugs.Together with Karen Dow - the mother of Mathew Dow, 23, who was killed on New Year's Eve 2017 by a driver high on meth and cannabis - the families took their fight to Parliament and a select committee hearing where they outlined their case.Keene was emotional last night on hearing the Government had listened - and believed it was possible the new police powers could have stopped Thompson from driving that day."But a lot of things could have happened [differently] from that day. You can't turn back time, that's for sure." Thompson were both killed in the crash. Photo / SuppliedThe new rules will go through Parliament next year and are expected to come into force in early 2021.The police will be able to conduct oral fluid drug testing on drivers. Any who test positive will be fined and immediately suspended from driving for a minimum 12 hours.Drivers will also face criminal penalties if they fail a compulsory impairment test and blood tests confirm impairing levels of drugs in their system.Keene - who had also lost his aunt and uncle, Ian and Rosalie Porteous, in the crash - said all the work the families had done had paid off."Something good came out of tragedy, but it should have happened years ago."The family had adjusted to the loss of their three relatives and were getting on with life."But it takes a while. Like any tragedy you talk about it a lot."They had always believed the law would change as there was clearly support from first responders and the public."The stats just stuck out - like that there are more people dying from drug drivers than drunk drivers. Some people might say it costs too much but what's the cost of a life? $25 for a test is nothing."Associate Transport Minister Julie Anne Genter said the new powers would send a clear message: "If you take drugs and drive, you will be caught."Last year, 95 people were killed in preventable crashes where the driver was found to have drugs in their system."The change will allow police to test drivers for the presence of drugs and impairing medication anywhere, anytime, just as they can for alcohol," Genter said.The Drug Foundation's executive director Ross Bell welcomed the Government's move.He said it represents a change in heart for not just the Government, but also for New Zealand."We know drug driving is an issue and we know police need to be equipped with the right tools."But the Government has been a bit nervous about rolling out [these tests] because they are not without their issues."There had been issues in the past with tests producing a false positive reading but it was likely that would be mitigated by technology in the future, Bell said.But he said it was likely technology would develop in the future which would help mitigate this issue.Genter, however, said the Government has a plan to tackle the false positive issue."The way we have designed this means it does have some practical an...

On the Podcast today we talk to Ross Bell from the Drug Foundation, Millie Sylvester tells us about the latest TradeMe auctions, we meet protesters at the Tegel factory and Brodie Retallick gives an update from Japan.

The head of the Drug Foundation is adamant pill testing at festivals will save lives.It's something the Labour Party here is keen on, but New Zealand First and National oppose it.Ross Bell told Simon and Phil he understands the concerns, but if we’re serious about protecting young people, we need to give them the testing option.LISTEN ABOVE

Jane and Kristin spoke to David Ellis, a senior specialist pharmacist and team leader for non-sterile production at the Women's and Children's hospital in Adelaide. He's also a contributor to the Australian Don't Rush to Crush Handbook. We spoke to David about the newest edition of Don't Rush to Crush. Monographs now contain information on the best way to give a dose that is less than a whole tablet or capsule. David talks us through the development of the new information and common pitfalls in giving a partial oral dose. This episode is brought to you by two upcoming conferences: The Alcohol and Drug Foundation 2019 National Prevention in Practice Conference (Melbourne, June 24th and 25th) https://adf.org.au/conference/ The SHPA 2019 Electronic Medication Management Conference (Sydney, June 22nd and 23rd) https://shpa.eventsair.com/emm-conference/   

In this summer podcast series, Newstalk ZB and the New Zealand Herald's Go to Health podcast tackles a different health issue each week. Today, it's whether our health system can handle medicinal marijuana, and whether we should stop there. Hosted by Frances Cook.It doesn't take a genius to realise our current approach to drug use is … flawed.Synthetic cannabis is a growing problem, with users often left a drooling mess, and rolling the dice that homemade concoctions may actually kill them.Meth use also doesn't seem to be going anywhere fast, with the expensive habit often sucking addicts into criminal activity in order to keep the drugs coming.Meanwhile, the rest of us are sitting around debating whether people who are dying of cancer can use medical marijuana as pain relief. The new Government is set to introduce medicinal cannabis legislation for those with terminal illness or chronic pain, as part of their 100 day plan. But even if there's action on that point, the rest of our drug laws still look topsy turvy.Emotion and moral judgement are loaded into the debate rather than a cold hard look at what works for the most people.It's hard not to look at Portugal for answers, after they decriminalised all drugs in 2001. That doesn't mean drugs are legal, it's just not a crime, and if you get caught using you get a medical referral instead of jail time.What's happened in the 16 years since? A sharp drop in drug-related harm, that's what. A drop in overdoses, HIV infections, drops in drug-related crime.The only increase was in the numbers of people getting medical help for drug addiction, which shot up 60 percent between 1998 and 2011. I called Ross Bell, executive director of the Drug Foundation, to find out if that could ever work for us.We talked about whether the health system can handle medicinal marijuana, ethical and quality control issues, and whether we should make bigger changes to our system for illegal drugs.For the interview, listen to the podcast.If you have any questions about this podcast, or something you want investigated for next time, come and talk to me about it.  I'm on Facebook and Twitter.

In this summer podcast series, Newstalk ZB and the New Zealand Herald's Go to Health podcast tackles a different health issue each week. Today, it's whether our health system can handle medicinal marijuana, and whether we should stop there. Hosted by Frances Cook.It doesn't take a genius to realise our current approach to drug use is … flawed.Synthetic cannabis is a growing problem, with users often left a drooling mess, and rolling the dice that homemade concoctions may actually kill them.Meth use also doesn't seem to be going anywhere fast, with the expensive habit often sucking addicts into criminal activity in order to keep the drugs coming.Meanwhile, the rest of us are sitting around debating whether people who are dying of cancer can use medical marijuana as pain relief. The new Government is set to introduce medicinal cannabis legislation for those with terminal illness or chronic pain, as part of their 100 day plan. But even if there's action on that point, the rest of our drug laws still look topsy turvy.Emotion and moral judgement are loaded into the debate rather than a cold hard look at what works for the most people.It's hard not to look at Portugal for answers, after they decriminalised all drugs in 2001. That doesn't mean drugs are legal, it's just not a crime, and if you get caught using you get a medical referral instead of jail time.What's happened in the 16 years since? A sharp drop in drug-related harm, that's what. A drop in overdoses, HIV infections, drops in drug-related crime.The only increase was in the numbers of people getting medical help for drug addiction, which shot up 60 percent between 1998 and 2011. I called Ross Bell, executive director of the Drug Foundation, to find out if that could ever work for us.We talked about whether the health system can handle medicinal marijuana, ethical and quality control issues, and whether we should make bigger changes to our system for illegal drugs.For the interview, listen to the podcast.If you have any questions about this podcast, or something you want investigated for next time, come and talk to me about it.  I'm on Facebook and Twitter.

Ben speaks to Geoff Munro from the Alcohol and Drug Foundation about the dangers schoolies face