Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Launches Methamphetamine Awareness Media Campaign

LOS ANGELES, March 2, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (DPH) launched today a public education campaign to increase awareness of the dangers of methamphetamine use. Commonly referred to as "meth," this highly addictive drug is now involved in more deaths in Los Angeles County than any other drug.  

The multimedia campaign - "Meth-Free LA County" - speaks to a wide range of audiences: The general public, individuals considered at high risk of using meth, and those who are currently struggling with addiction to meth. 

"Meth use is escalating in LA County. This has had a devastating impact on the wellbeing of our residents and communities. This is a drug that is highly addictive, and often robs people of their health, relationships, jobs and homes. This campaign speaks to the general public and those at risk of using meth, informing them about how much is at stake when you become addicted to the drug," said Barbara Ferrer, PhD, MPH, MEd, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. "The campaign also speaks compassionately to those struggling with addiction ? we want everyone to know that treatment works, and recovery is possible."

The campaign will run in English and Spanish on local airwaves, social media channels and billboards. It directs people to visit the website www.MethFreeLACounty.org to learn more about meth prevention and treatment resources. This campaign is an important element of LA County's multi-faceted strategy to prevent substance use disorders (SUD) and mitigate its impact on our communities. The media campaign launching today aims to save lives by connecting people to information and resources.

The campaign was informed by extensive research with those at risk of using meth, current and former users, as well as experts from diverse sectors around the County.  This effort was key in developing the campaign's strategy, tone and messaging.

"Meth use is affecting countless residents throughout Los Angeles County ? impacting every neighborhood and all walks of life," said Supervisor Kathryn Barger. "As a community, we need to show empathy, while providing the critical support and resources to help those struggling with addiction to meth. In addition, we need to work together to prevent the onset of use and addiction. Through this campaign, we hope to demonstrate how meth can quickly devastate one's life and to remind our community that there are healthier, safer ways to cope with the stressors of everyday life."

Held at Day One, a community-based nonprofit prevention organization, today's news conference featured Supervisor Barger, public health officials, a person in recovery who is now a treatment counselor, and healthcare and treatment professionals.

For information on how to connect with treatment, please call our Substance Abuse Service Helpline (SASH) at 1-844-804-7500 at any time, day or night.

The Department of Public Health is committed to promoting health equity and ensuring optimal health and well-being for all 10 million residents of Los Angeles County. Through a variety of programs, community partnerships and services, Public Health oversees environmental health, disease control, and community and family health. Nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health comprises nearly 4,500 employees and has an annual budget of $1.2 billion. To learn more about the LA County Department of Public Health and the work they do, visit PublicHealth.LACounty.gov, and follow Public Health on social media at twitter.com/LAPublicHealth, facebook.com/LAPublicHealth, and youtube.com/LAPublicHealth.

SOURCE Los Angeles County Department of Public Health