Ecstasy Use in Northern Ireland: A Qualitative Study

Author(s): Karen McElrath and Kieran McEvoy
Document Type: Report
Year: 1999
Publisher: The Stationery Office
Place of Publication: Belfast
Subject Area(s): Health, Drugs, Culture/Identity
Client Group(s) : Men, Women, Young People

Abbreviations: NI - Northern Ireland

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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