Background
to the
Research
- The majority of drug research
in NI has focused on self-report studies, these elicit valuable data
on prevalence and frequency, however they give limited information about
users lifestyles. This report sought to explore drug use patterns and
lifestyles in relation to the use of ecstasy.
Research
Approach
- Between October 1997 and November 1998
in-depth face-to-face interviews were carried out with 98 current or
former Ecstasy users. Additional data were collected through on-site
observations in selected club venues.
Main
Findings
- Males comprised 69% of the sample and respondents'
ages ranged from 17 to 45 years, the mean age was 25 years. Sixteen
per cent identified their sexual preference as being gay or bisexual.
- One-half of the sample lived in Belfast,
46% lived elsewhere in NI and 4% lived outside the north.
- Forty-nine per cent of respondents identified
themselves as working class, 46% as middle class and 5% 'between' working
and middle class. Slightly over half (57%) were employed in either part-time
or full-time work.
- The average age when respondents first
used Ecstasy was 21 years. Respondents who had used Ecstasy in the 6
months prior to interview had been using for 4 years on average, with
the frequency of use fluctuating.
- In the 6 months prior to interview, 8%
of respondents had not used Ecstasy at all, 50% had used less than once
a month (6 times or less), 37% had used one-to-four times per month
and 5% had used at least twice per week.
- Most respondents (77%) were current users
and 18% were former users and 5% were trying to stop using or were not
certain whether they would use again. Forty-four per cent of the sample
had used Ecstasy on at least 100 different occasions, whilst 18% had
used the drug on 12 occasions or less.
- Several respondents had used Ecstasy with
other drugs and most users consumed alcohol, often large amounts, when
taking Ecstasy.
- Most respondents had tried other drugs;
in particular cannabis, amphetamines and LSD/mushrooms. Around one-third
of the sample used cannabis daily, however extensive use of other drugs
was far less common.
- For several respondents, subtle peer pressure
(as opposed to peer pressure), curiosity and the opportunity to use
were the main factors that contributed to initial use.
- Although several respondents attributed
negative experiences to taking Ecstasy, positive experiences (euphoria,
improvements in self-confidence) were reported more often. Whilst several
respondents reported solidarity ('loved up' feelings, tolerance of others)
among users, these were more often associated with certain clubs.
- Relationships with family and partners
were affected by the difficult 'comedowns' that followed in the 2-5
day period after Ecstasy use. Work performance was also affected for
some users. It is difficult to determine whether these effects can be
attributed to Ecstasy as most respondents consumed alcohol whilst using
Ecstasy.
- Respondents' knowledge about water intake
during Ecstasy use was limited. Regulations in some clubs (fees for
water) might contribute to negative health consequences for those unable
to pay.
- Overall, respondents did not trust government
or media messages about Ecstasy. However, some noted that selected anti-drug
messages might deter young non-users from trying drugs.
Recommendations
- Health promotion material needs to specifically
address the risks associated with polydrug use and the importance of
water intake when taking Ecstasy needs to be emphasised. Drug information
that is accurate and presented without judgement can help users in reducing
the health consequences related to drug use.
- There is a need to ensure that information
is made available in venues and through mediums that are accessible
to drug users. In particular, clubs should be encouraged to display
and distribute health promotion literature regarding drug use.
- Health and safety information regarding
drug use should be available to employers' bodies, major employers,
the Training & Employment Agency and other employment-related agencies.
- We recommend that all clubs in NI adhere
to guidelines that promote a safe environment for clientele, for example
offering free water and 'chill out' areas.
- Future research should examine the effect
and after-effects of Ecstasy on driving. If Ecstasy impairs driving
abilities, a similar campaign to that for drink-driving should be instigated.
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