Impacts of covid-19 and associated restrictions on people who use illicit stimulants in Australia

The Ecstasy and Related Drugs Reporting System (EDRS) recently published “Impacts of covid-19 and associated restrictions on people who use illicit stimulants in Australia: Preliminary findings from the Ecstasy and Related Drugs Reporting System 2020.” The EDRS has conducted annual surveys since 2003 with people who regularly use ecstasy and other illicit stimulants. Due to the onset of covid-19, the researchers recognised the need for information on people’s experiences during this time. 

Key findings from the first half of the sample (389 interviews), reflected that the majority of participants reported no change or a decrease in their level of drug use. A large percentage of participants perceived availability of most stimulant drugs as ‘stable’ with the exception of  MDMA which had a higher proportion of participants stating it was ‘more difficult’ to obtain.  Although 44% noted their mental health as worse during the last month, only 6% reported any difficulties in accessing AOD services for support.

The complete report is due to be published late July. 

Go to “Impacts of covid-19 and associated restrictions on people who use illicit stimulants in Australia: Preliminary findings from the Ecstasy and Related Drugs Reporting System 2020.”