Crystal methamphetamine in the media
Mindframe for Alcohol and Other Drugs recognises the unique need for support for the media and other stakeholders when communicating about specific drugs, as each drug is unique and often reported upon differently.
This information aims to explore specific considerations for communicating about crystal methamphetamine.
Crystal methamphetamine in the media: A guide to non-stigmatising and accurate reporting
Crystal methamphetamine in the media: A guide to non-stigmatising and accurate reporting accompanies the core Mindframe for Alcohol and Other Drugs guidelines. This resource has been developed to assist media and other stakeholders with accurate and safe portrayals of crystal methamphetamine use and harms and to promote help-seeking behaviour.
This resource is supported by quick guides available for download below.
Importance of the Crystal Methamphemine guide
Methamphetamine has been covered in the media extensively. There has been a particular focus on topics such police services, aggression and violent crime. Misinformation, stigma and discrimination about crystal methamphetamine not only affects the person using ice, but also their families, friends and community. Media portrayals have the potential to impact community attitudes and behaviours and have implications on broader policy development.
Finding accurate information can be difficult and time consuming. Hence these resources hope to assist news media, public relations, other media outlets and creative enterprises to easily access evidence-based information and support on how to safely and accurately report, portray and communicate about crystal methamphetamine related issues.
Stigma is a significant barrier to seeking help for drug problems. The media play a central role in driving community views about drugs and drug use and are critical in minimising stigma. Reducing fear and prejudice about crystal methamphetamine helps people who use the drug and the community more generally. These guidelines are essential reading for all journalists reporting on crystal methamphetamine.
How the guide and resources were developed
This resource was developed through a partnership of Mindframe for Alcohol and Other Drugs and Cracks in the Ice, and reviewed by content experts, lived experience and media professionals.
We would like to thank all those who have supported the development of these guidelines.
Additional resources
Cracks in the Ice provided expert information for this quick guide to provide convenient information on some common myths about crystal methamphetamine. Accurate portrayals can assist in preventing panic in the community and stigmatisation of those who have used or currently use alcohol and other drugs. Mindframe thanks Cracks in the Ice for their assistance in developing this resource.
For more information on crystal methamphetamine see www.cracksintheice.org.au
Language used to describe people who use crystal methamphetamine can impact how they perceive themselves and how others view them. Inaccurate and irresponsible use of language and terminology is stigmatising for people who use crystal methamphetamine and can prevent them from seeking help.
Help-seeking
This crystal methamphetamine help-seeking card has been created as a quick reference for contacts that may assist with stories or portrayals related to this drug. This guide can be downloaded and shared on social media, with #MindframeAOD and linking to @MindframeMedia and @cracksintheice
