A rehab centre set up by two Co Kildare men is reporting huge increases in young people suffering from drug-induced psychosis following cannabis use.
Newbridge man, Phil Thompson, established Tiglin Rehab Centre, in 2008. Later his friend, Punchestown native, Aubrey McCarthy, established the 'No Bucks Bus'.
This bus provides food to the homeless in Dublin city, Bray, Dun Laoghaire and Ballymun. The 'No Bucks Bus' will be parked outside the main entrance of Punchestown Races this Friday.
Mr Thompson who set up the residential centre Tiglin Rehab, at Ashford Co Wicklow, is deeply concerned that young people are now at risk of 'higher potency' cannabis. He is concerned that many who come to Tiglin after being in hospital for drug -induced psychosis are 'mentally fragile, a bit paranoid, nervous and have no self-confidence.'
Several young women and men, aged between 18- 25, are being admitted to hospital after suffering from drug induced psychosis.
Typically the drug treatment programme at Tiglin is 16 months.
Tiglin Rehab Centre caters for those over 18, there are currently 30 men and 10 women attending the services.
Contact Tiglin on (0404)49683.
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