The "Kronic" issue for young people

Youthline is concerned about synthetic cannabis known as 'Kronic' which is readily available in dairies.

Although there is an age restriction of 18 years it is well known that it is relatively easy for younger teens to access it.

Youthline Auckland spokesperson, Stephen Bell says this needs to change.

"The ban on sales to under-eighteens needs to be firmly enforced. In addition, sales of Kronic should be limited to specialist retailers who do not operate near schools and who are not open for business at times when schools are opening or closing," he says.

Concern over Kronic has increased recently after revelations a 20-year-old from Auckland's North Shore was admitted to mental health services following heavy use of the synthetic drug.

No in-depth studies have been carried out on Kronic but research suggests it is just as harmful, if not more so than illegal cannabis.

"What is needed in this circumstance is a greater level of awareness and community responsibility- teens need to be educated about the dangers of these so-called 'legal' drugs.

There is a mentality that if it's legal it's ok and more often than not this isn't the case."

There has been a call to ban the drug but Youthline Spokesperson Stephen Bell says this will not solve the problem.

"Prohibition of kronic alone would not minimise harm- it is essential that steps are taken to reduce other alternatives being developed which could be even more harmful.

Youthline welcomes the Governments plan to consider a Law Commission recommendation that synthetic drugs must be proved safe before they can be sold.

"This will go some way to ensuring our young people are not being unnecessarily endangered, but we still need to look at the bigger picture- why do people want to take these drugs?"

Mr Bell stresses adult role models play a key part.

"Young people model their behaviour on the example set by their parents and the wider society, as well as on that of their peers. In New Zealand, we behave as if intoxication is a necessary part of fun, and a rite of passage. Hence, the widespread use of both legal and illegal intoxicants.

The best way we can combat this is to show our young people that it is possible to enjoy ourselves without being intoxicated."
ends

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