Young Aussies are ditching pricey alcohol for a dangerous drug that’s sending them to hospital – and it’s all because of financial stress.
Gamma hydroxybutyrate, known as GHB, is increasingly popular among young Australians due to its low cost, easy accessibility, and mind-altering effects.
The effects of GHB can be felt within 15 minutes, causing relaxation, sociability, euphoria, and an increased sex drive.
But, the margin of error between a recreational dosage and an overdose is terrifyingly small – and even a slight overdose can be fatal.
GHB-Related Ambulance Callouts on the Rise
New research from Monash University and Turning Point reveals that GHB-related ambulance callouts have skyrocketed across Australia.
Victoria has the highest rate of GHB-related ambulance callouts, with 65.8 attendances per 100,000 people in 2023 – a 67% increase from the previous year.
Tasmania has also seen a significant spike, with attendances increasing by 346% between 2022 and 2023.
Financial Pressures Driving the Trend
Reformed ice dealer Braiden Tonks says GHB is on the rise nationwide due to its sought-after side-effects.
Experts believe financial pressures are contributing to an appetite for harder substances, as young people seek an escape from reality.
Dr. David Caldicott, a Canberra emergency consultant, says the promise of “escape” is more influential than the affordability of GHB.
Kristie Tse, founder of Uncover Mental Health Counselling, agrees that financial pressures are engendering a “need for relief” among young people.
According to One Touch finance founder Maria Rosey, cost-of-living pressures can create circumstances where substance use is seen as more acceptable.