Australian women are using methamphetamine to keep themselves awake so they can protect themselves and their children from domestic violence.
A special investigation by news.com.au’s Liz Burke found women are turning to the drug to help them stay alert and safe from violent attacks, as well as using it as a way to mentally escape the horrors of their situation.
Burke interviewed Sydney mum and former ice addict Sam, who detailed her use of the drug to help cope with her abuse.
“I didn’t want to sleep, ever … because of what he might do to me … I thought I wouldn’t wake up one day and I probably would’ve been right,” Sam said.
“I just wanted to block it all out. I’d just wipe myself out because I didn’t want to think. My life was destroyed and I didn’t want to deal with it. I’d just take drugs and everything would disappear and it wouldn’t matter.”
Burke found Sam’s case was far from unique, quoting a Melbourne ice expert who said a “scary” number of female ice addicts cite domestic violence as a reason for their drug use.
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic violence, contact 1800RESPECT.
