Breaking the iceBreaking the ice
All In The Mind
We’re in the midst of an ice epidemic—or are we? It's known that current methamphetamine users are switching from speed to the stronger form of crystal meth or ice. As a result, the risk of addiction and associated mental health problems is increasing.
28:55•6 Mar 2016
Breaking the Ice: Crystal Meth, Mental Health and a Path to Recovery
Episode Overview
- Meth use in Australia has not risen overall, but existing users are switching from speed to the stronger form, ice, increasing the severity of problems.
- Ice dramatically boosts dopamine, leading to intense highs followed by profound lows and long-term disruption of emotion regulation and clear thinking.
- Around 80% of regular meth users experience significant depression and about 25% experience psychotic symptoms, often complicating treatment and increasing relapse risk.
- Counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy can substantially improve abstinence rates and mood, especially when paired with lifestyle changes and non-using social networks.
- Anyone worried about their use is urged to speak openly with trusted people and seek professional, long-term support, as denial is a core part of addiction.
“If you think there might be a problem, there is. That's the general rule. Addiction's about denial.”
How do people find strength in their journey to sobriety? This conversation from *All In The Mind* looks at crystal meth, or ice, and its impact on mental health, while challenging the idea that Australia is in the grip of a classic "epidemic". Associate Professor Dr Nicole Lee explains that methamphetamine use in the wider population hasn’t gone up, but the people who already use have shifted from speed to the far stronger form, ice.
As she puts it, "we've seen an increase in problems", highlighting that dependence, psychosis, aggression and other mental health issues rise sharply with heavier ice use. You’ll hear clear, practical harm reduction tips, such as avoiding mixing drugs, watching frequency of use, and paying attention to sleep, food and mood. The episode also brings in clinical psychologist Amanda Baker, who breaks down how meth affects the brain and why psychotic symptoms can appear, even continuing after someone stops using.
She stresses that counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy can make a real difference, noting that just a few sessions can double abstinence rates and ease depression, especially when people start changing their lifestyle and social circles. Adding a human face to all this is Jack Nagel, who shares his journey from promising young basketballer to "stereotypical junkie" and back again.
His vivid description of an ice high—"almost getting hit by a train"—is matched by equally stark stories of psychosis, homelessness, and the slow, uncomfortable process of learning to live drug-free. Jack’s advice cuts straight to the point: "If you think there might be a problem, there is... Addiction's about denial," urging anyone worried about their use to talk to someone and seek proper support.
If you’re curious about the realities of ice use, mental health risks, and what genuine help can look like, this episode might be the prompt you need to start a conversation about change.
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