Twice as many people seeking help for meth abuse

The number of Rockingham drug users seeking treatment for methamphetamine addiction doubled in February, compared with the same period last year, according to alcohol and drug service provider Palmerston Association.

Community services manager Bram Dickens said more than 80 people approached Rockingham Community Alcohol and Drug Services seeking help for meth addiction, compared with fewer than 40 during the same period last year.

Mr Dickens said about 14 per cent of the 573 clients on the service's books in February identified meth as their primary drug.

He said while alcohol addiction was still the most common problem for clients, methamphetamine use was on the rise.

"We have seen more users of these drugs in recent months," Mr Dickens said.

"However, it's important to put this into context - alcohol is still the primary drug confronting alcohol and drug services."

Palmerston Association chief executive Sheila McHale said it had been only eight months since Rockingham services located to larger premises at Council Avenue.

She said the provider had expected a gradual increase in demand for services over time, but demand had risen significantly and immediately.

Mrs McHale said the number of clients contacting its service had gone up by 25 per cent since July last year.

"Since we moved into bigger premises, we have seen a 14 per cent increase in the average number of clients we support," she said.

"As an example, the total number of clients in February was 573, compared with 491 at the same time in 2014."

Mr Dickens said those who suspected a loved one was using meth should seek help as soon as possible.

He said this type of addiction was frightening for families, but lives could still change.