Phencyclidine (PCP)
Phencyclidine (PCP): Understanding the Risks and Seeking Help in Australia
Phencyclidine (PCP), often known as "Angel Dust," is a dangerous drug with potent mind-altering effects. Once widely used as an anesthetic, its unpredictable and harmful side effects led to its ban in most countries, including Australia.
Despite its illegality, PCP remains a concern in some communities, impacting individuals, families, and businesses.
Understanding the Risks of PCP:
Hallucinations and Distortions: PCP users experience intense hallucinations, distorted perceptions of reality, and detachment from their surroundings. These can be terrifying and cause unpredictable behavior.
Violence and Aggression: PCP can significantly increase aggression and paranoia, leading to violence towards oneself or others. This poses a danger to users and those around them.
Mental Health Consequences: PCP use can trigger or worsen mental health conditions like psychosis, schizophrenia, and depression. The long-term effects on the brain can be severe and long-lasting.
Addiction and Physical Harm: PCP is highly addictive, and chronic use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms. It also carries physical risks like seizures, organ damage, and impaired bladder function.
Statistics on PCP usage in Australia:
The National Drug Strategy Household Survey 2020 estimated that 0.5% of Australians aged 14 years and over had used PCP in the past year.
PCP was detected in 1.1% of drug seizures by Australian Customs and Border Protection in 2021-2022.
A 2018 study by the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre found that PCP users were more likely to have mental health issues and engage in risky sexual behavior.
Information for Individuals and Businesses:
Individual
Businesses
If you or someone you know is struggling with PCP use, seeking help is crucial. Contact any of the following resources for confidential support and treatment options:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline: 1800 250 000
Drug and Alcohol Treatment Services (DATS): Find your local service via the Australian Department of Health website.
Together We Can Build a Safer Future
If you suspect PCP use in your workplace or business, consider implementing drug and alcohol policies, providing employee education, and offering access to confidential support services.
Resources for People Seeking Help in Australia:
Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 655 777
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 55 77
Drug and Alcohol Treatment Services (DATS):
Find your local service via the Australian Department of Health website.
Alcohol and Drug Foundation: www.adf.org.au
National Council on Alcohol and Drugs (NCAD): www.drugandalcohol.org.au
Remember: PCP use is a serious problem with potentially devastating consequences. Seeking help is essential for individuals struggling with addiction and can protect communities from the harms associated with this dangerous drug.
How we test for PCP:
Testing for Phencyclidine (PCP) in the workplace is one of the best ways to keep your employees safe, healthy, and productive.
The most common testing methods are:
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Hair follicle drug testing – Compared to a urine test, a hair test for Phencyclidine (PCP) use has a longer window of detection. It can detect cannabis use for the past two to three months, and sometimes even longer. This longer window of detection makes it popular for use in pre-employment Phencyclidine (PCP) testing.