1 00:00:00,980 --> 00:00:03,020 (THEME MUSIC PLAYS) 2 00:00:13,940 --> 00:00:15,300 OK. 3 00:00:15,300 --> 00:00:15,540 Let's see what I think about the position of this guy here. OK. 4 00:00:15,540 --> 00:00:18,740 Let's see what I think about the position of this guy here. 5 00:00:19,700 --> 00:00:21,220 GRACE TOBIN: Thousands of babies 6 00:00:21,220 --> 00:00:23,660 are born exposed to their mothers' drug use 7 00:00:23,660 --> 00:00:25,020 every year. 8 00:00:25,980 --> 00:00:29,460 ALYSHA: For me, I feel like me using drugs when I'm pregnant, 9 00:00:29,460 --> 00:00:32,300 that's the lowest I could have possibly gone. 10 00:00:32,300 --> 00:00:34,260 It's the one thing I said I would never, ever, ever, ever do, 11 00:00:34,260 --> 00:00:34,500 It's the one thing I said and I did it. 12 00:00:34,500 --> 00:00:35,780 and I did it. 13 00:00:38,100 --> 00:00:40,100 Australia's been in the grips 14 00:00:40,100 --> 00:00:44,180 of one of the world's worst ice addictions for the last decade. 15 00:00:44,180 --> 00:00:44,420 of one of the world's worst But the cost to the next generation 16 00:00:44,420 --> 00:00:45,980 But the cost to the next generation 17 00:00:45,980 --> 00:00:46,180 has remained hidden. But the cost to the next generation 18 00:00:46,180 --> 00:00:47,980 has remained hidden. 19 00:00:47,980 --> 00:00:48,220 This is a story about an issue has remained hidden. 20 00:00:48,220 --> 00:00:52,100 This is a story about an issue no-one wants to deal with. 21 00:00:53,260 --> 00:00:54,580 ALYSHA: I've been in hospitals 22 00:00:54,580 --> 00:00:56,460 begging, crying for help, 23 00:00:56,460 --> 00:00:57,500 and they've just looked at me like, 24 00:00:57,500 --> 00:00:59,540 "You're a worthless junkie," kind of thing. 25 00:01:00,500 --> 00:01:02,380 STACY BLYTHE: We're gonna have incarcerations, 26 00:01:02,380 --> 00:01:03,620 we're gonna have addictions. 27 00:01:03,620 --> 00:01:06,100 We're gonna be paying for it as a society. 28 00:01:07,380 --> 00:01:10,940 For these children, the consequences can be life-long. 29 00:01:11,980 --> 00:01:16,260 BRYCE: I was exposed to drugs by my biological mother. 30 00:01:16,260 --> 00:01:20,540 The only reason that I am the way I am is because of them. 31 00:01:20,540 --> 00:01:22,980 (BABY GRIZZLES) Oh, buddy, come here. 32 00:01:22,980 --> 00:01:27,700 But right now there's no diagnosis and very little research. 33 00:01:27,700 --> 00:01:27,940 But right now there's no diagnosis DAN HOWARD: These people need help. 34 00:01:27,940 --> 00:01:29,500 DAN HOWARD: These people need help. 35 00:01:29,500 --> 00:01:31,700 Stigma is just huge, 36 00:01:31,700 --> 00:01:34,540 and we have to grow up as a society. 37 00:01:34,540 --> 00:01:36,020 (BABY FUSSES) 38 00:01:36,020 --> 00:01:38,460 In hospitals and rehab centres 39 00:01:38,460 --> 00:01:38,700 we meet women In hospitals and rehab centres 40 00:01:38,700 --> 00:01:42,980 we meet women fighting to overpower addiction 41 00:01:42,980 --> 00:01:45,220 before it's too late. 42 00:01:45,220 --> 00:01:47,420 DAVIDA: At the end of the day 43 00:01:47,420 --> 00:01:47,660 I've gotta tell myself DAVIDA: At the end of the day 44 00:01:47,660 --> 00:01:49,900 I've gotta tell myself that there's a cut-off period. 45 00:01:49,900 --> 00:01:52,540 Like, I don't want to hurt my baby. 46 00:02:03,860 --> 00:02:07,340 I'm about to head into the special-care nursery 47 00:02:07,340 --> 00:02:09,820 here at the Royal Women's Hospital in Melbourne. 48 00:02:09,820 --> 00:02:14,420 It's where they look after really sick and premature babies. 49 00:02:14,420 --> 00:02:14,660 It's where they look after What you might not know 50 00:02:14,660 --> 00:02:15,900 What you might not know 51 00:02:15,900 --> 00:02:17,460 is there are also babies here 52 00:02:17,460 --> 00:02:17,700 withdrawing is there are also babies here 53 00:02:17,700 --> 00:02:20,700 withdrawing from their mums' drug use. 54 00:02:28,140 --> 00:02:31,260 So, how many babies a year would you see in here 55 00:02:31,260 --> 00:02:33,780 who have been prenatally drug-exposed? 56 00:02:33,780 --> 00:02:36,020 90 to 100 are coming through every year. 57 00:02:36,020 --> 00:02:36,260 90 to 100 are coming through That seems like a lot. 58 00:02:36,260 --> 00:02:37,500 That seems like a lot. 59 00:02:37,500 --> 00:02:41,380 We're seeing more and more of this as an issue in our community. 60 00:02:41,380 --> 00:02:43,620 It's incredibly urgent. 61 00:02:46,620 --> 00:02:47,940 Thank you. Come on in. 62 00:02:47,940 --> 00:02:50,420 Come and wash your hands. Yes. Just here? 63 00:02:50,420 --> 00:02:52,380 Yep. Roll your sleeves up, wash your hands. 64 00:02:52,380 --> 00:02:52,620 Yep. Roll your sleeves up, Midwife Elvira is increasingly 65 00:02:52,620 --> 00:02:54,860 Midwife Elvira is increasingly 66 00:02:54,860 --> 00:02:59,300 seeing babies affected by methamphetamines or ice. 67 00:03:01,700 --> 00:03:03,300 What are some of the tell-tale signs 68 00:03:03,300 --> 00:03:07,340 that a baby is withdrawing from something like ice? 69 00:03:07,340 --> 00:03:07,580 Babies who are withdrawing from ice that a baby is withdrawing from something like ice? 70 00:03:07,580 --> 00:03:10,620 Babies who are withdrawing from ice 71 00:03:10,620 --> 00:03:10,860 can present Babies who are withdrawing from ice 72 00:03:10,860 --> 00:03:13,140 can present with feeding difficulties, 73 00:03:13,140 --> 00:03:16,780 so, they can have real issues with the coordination of their jaw, 74 00:03:16,780 --> 00:03:17,060 so, they can have real issues with the coordination of their jaw, which means that they can't suck at the bottle or the breast. 75 00:03:17,060 --> 00:03:20,020 which means that they can't suck at the bottle or the breast. 76 00:03:20,020 --> 00:03:23,100 These babies can also present with tremors or jitters, 77 00:03:23,100 --> 00:03:26,460 so, just a real pronounced shake in their hands... 78 00:03:26,460 --> 00:03:26,700 so, just a real pronounced shake (BABY FUSSES) 79 00:03:26,700 --> 00:03:27,940 (BABY FUSSES) 80 00:03:27,940 --> 00:03:31,820 ..and they can be either quite irritable and agitated babies 81 00:03:31,820 --> 00:03:33,060 who are difficult to settle 82 00:03:33,060 --> 00:03:34,540 or, on the flipside, 83 00:03:34,540 --> 00:03:38,060 they can be babies who are lethargic, 84 00:03:38,060 --> 00:03:38,300 they can be babies who are struggling to wake up. 85 00:03:38,300 --> 00:03:40,540 who are struggling to wake up. 86 00:03:40,540 --> 00:03:42,180 And if we don't take action 87 00:03:42,180 --> 00:03:44,420 to really get the right amount of milk into them 88 00:03:44,420 --> 00:03:48,980 they can then start to miss some of those milestones. 89 00:03:50,620 --> 00:03:55,220 The Women's Alcohol and Drug Service, or WADS, as it's called, 90 00:03:55,220 --> 00:03:55,460 The Women's Alcohol and Drug Service, is a specialised clinic 91 00:03:55,460 --> 00:03:56,780 is a specialised clinic 92 00:03:56,780 --> 00:04:00,940 for pregnant women with complex substance-use issues. 93 00:04:00,940 --> 00:04:05,540 It was originally set up in the '80s at the time of the heroin epidemic, 94 00:04:05,540 --> 00:04:11,060 but now ice is the number-one illicit drug they're dealing with. 95 00:04:13,340 --> 00:04:17,340 Ice passes from the mother's bloodstream to her brain, 96 00:04:17,340 --> 00:04:20,500 but it also passes from the mother's bloodstream 97 00:04:20,500 --> 00:04:22,100 across the placenta and into the baby 98 00:04:22,100 --> 00:04:24,300 and into the baby's developing brain. 99 00:04:24,300 --> 00:04:26,540 How concerned are you 100 00:04:26,540 --> 00:04:30,900 if a pregnant woman comes to you and there is meth use involved? 101 00:04:30,900 --> 00:04:31,140 if a pregnant woman comes to you Well, it is a real health concern, 102 00:04:31,140 --> 00:04:33,420 Well, it is a real health concern, 103 00:04:33,420 --> 00:04:36,380 and typically when mothers come to us 104 00:04:36,380 --> 00:04:38,620 they're fully aware of that and they're wanting to work on it. 105 00:04:38,620 --> 00:04:40,140 The reality is that methamphetamines 106 00:04:40,140 --> 00:04:43,660 are highly, highly, highly addictive, 107 00:04:43,660 --> 00:04:45,940 and when someone's using them on a really regular basis 108 00:04:45,940 --> 00:04:48,580 it can be incredibly difficult to stop. 109 00:04:49,780 --> 00:04:52,820 We should be paying attention to this across the nation, 110 00:04:52,820 --> 00:04:54,220 we are one little hospital, 111 00:04:54,220 --> 00:04:57,700 and this is something that happens in every community. 112 00:05:03,380 --> 00:05:08,260 Unlike heroin, there's no replacement therapy medication for meth. 113 00:05:08,260 --> 00:05:11,820 The only treatment is detox and counselling. 114 00:05:13,420 --> 00:05:15,260 In north-east Melbourne 115 00:05:15,260 --> 00:05:20,140 I'm visiting a women's-only residential rehabilitation centre. 116 00:05:20,140 --> 00:05:22,660 It's one of only a handful in Australia 117 00:05:22,660 --> 00:05:25,540 that allows mothers to stay with their children on-site 118 00:05:25,540 --> 00:05:25,780 that allows mothers during treatment. 119 00:05:25,780 --> 00:05:28,020 during treatment. 120 00:05:28,020 --> 00:05:31,260 So, a pregnant woman can come here, have her baby 121 00:05:31,260 --> 00:05:34,540 and then return here and continue on with rehab. 122 00:05:34,540 --> 00:05:34,780 and then return here (INDISTINCT CHATTER) 123 00:05:34,780 --> 00:05:37,020 (INDISTINCT CHATTER) 124 00:05:49,380 --> 00:05:54,700 Bridgehaven is an 18-bed facility run by the Salvation Army. 125 00:05:54,700 --> 00:05:54,940 Bridgehaven is an 18-bed facility ALL: Morning, everyone! 126 00:05:54,940 --> 00:05:57,180 ALL: Morning, everyone! 127 00:05:57,180 --> 00:06:01,460 Mornings here begin with a group check-in... 128 00:06:01,460 --> 00:06:03,740 You really can lose the obsession to use drugs 129 00:06:03,740 --> 00:06:03,980 You really can lose the obsession or impulsively use drugs. 130 00:06:03,980 --> 00:06:06,220 or impulsively use drugs. 131 00:06:06,220 --> 00:06:08,780 ..somewhat of a daily confessional 132 00:06:08,780 --> 00:06:11,740 of the highs and lows of recovery. 133 00:06:11,740 --> 00:06:13,380 I haven't had my kids for four years 134 00:06:13,380 --> 00:06:16,420 and I'm finally getting to see them on the weekends. 135 00:06:16,420 --> 00:06:16,660 and I'm finally getting to see them Um... I hit rock bottom, 136 00:06:16,660 --> 00:06:19,380 Um... I hit rock bottom, 137 00:06:19,380 --> 00:06:23,220 I was in trouble with the police, 138 00:06:23,220 --> 00:06:25,620 it was jail or come to rehab. 139 00:06:25,620 --> 00:06:28,620 I've made one big step in my life to come here 140 00:06:28,620 --> 00:06:32,820 and be in this recovery with all you lovely ladies. 141 00:06:32,820 --> 00:06:34,220 (ALL CHUCKLE) Yeah. 142 00:06:34,220 --> 00:06:37,420 Today I'm feeling motivated and excited. 143 00:06:37,420 --> 00:06:40,140 OTHERS: Have a good day, Amy! Thank you. 144 00:06:40,140 --> 00:06:43,180 TERRIANNE: In addiction I never looked at myself in the mirror. 145 00:06:43,180 --> 00:06:45,060 Now in recovery, being here, 146 00:06:45,060 --> 00:06:49,820 I'm getting all my teeth pulled out, so, I get my falsies soon, 147 00:06:49,820 --> 00:06:53,100 I can actually smile because I used to do these ones... 148 00:06:53,100 --> 00:06:56,260 ..put my hand over my mouth when I talked, when I ate, everything. 149 00:06:56,260 --> 00:06:58,500 Um... Yeah. 150 00:06:58,500 --> 00:07:01,580 Today there's a new resident moving in. 151 00:07:01,580 --> 00:07:01,820 Today there's a new resident She's 28 weeks pregnant... 152 00:07:01,820 --> 00:07:03,340 She's 28 weeks pregnant... 153 00:07:03,340 --> 00:07:03,580 Whoa! She's 28 weeks pregnant... 154 00:07:03,580 --> 00:07:04,820 Whoa! ..so, she will be 155 00:07:04,820 --> 00:07:05,060 Whoa! giving birth whilst at Bridgehaven. 156 00:07:05,060 --> 00:07:07,380 giving birth whilst at Bridgehaven. 157 00:07:07,380 --> 00:07:08,980 So, we'll have another Bridgehaven baby. 158 00:07:08,980 --> 00:07:10,500 Awesome! Yay. 159 00:07:12,980 --> 00:07:16,300 And there's a good group of women here too, very supportive... 160 00:07:16,300 --> 00:07:21,140 24-year-old Alysha has travelled four hours from a regional town 161 00:07:21,140 --> 00:07:22,140 to be here. 162 00:07:22,140 --> 00:07:24,300 So, we've got your key 163 00:07:24,300 --> 00:07:27,700 and we'll go into your room, show you around, 164 00:07:27,700 --> 00:07:29,980 do a bag check. Yep. 165 00:07:29,980 --> 00:07:32,220 So, again, amazing that you got here. 166 00:07:32,220 --> 00:07:34,460 I'm excited to be here. I made it! 167 00:07:34,460 --> 00:07:36,900 You did, you did. Yeah. 168 00:07:38,860 --> 00:07:40,700 Let me carry that 'cause that's too heavy. 169 00:07:40,700 --> 00:07:43,260 Yeah, we'll swap ya. Here you go. Thank you. 170 00:07:43,260 --> 00:07:46,900 Which way are we going? Just through here. 171 00:07:46,900 --> 00:07:48,300 After you. 172 00:07:48,300 --> 00:07:50,820 It's not easy to get a bed here. 173 00:07:50,820 --> 00:07:52,300 On any given day 174 00:07:52,300 --> 00:07:55,460 there are more than 800 people on the waitlist 175 00:07:55,460 --> 00:07:59,060 for residential treatment in Victoria alone. 176 00:07:59,060 --> 00:07:59,300 for residential treatment It smells nice in here. 177 00:07:59,300 --> 00:08:00,540 It smells nice in here. 178 00:08:00,540 --> 00:08:04,100 Alysha was prioritised because she's pregnant, 179 00:08:04,100 --> 00:08:04,340 Alysha was prioritised but it still took a month to get in. 180 00:08:04,340 --> 00:08:06,580 but it still took a month to get in. 181 00:08:06,580 --> 00:08:08,220 And I know you don't need the cot yet, 182 00:08:08,220 --> 00:08:08,460 And I know so, we'll move that out for you. 183 00:08:08,460 --> 00:08:09,700 so, we'll move that out for you. 184 00:08:09,700 --> 00:08:11,460 This is a big room. Yeah. 185 00:08:11,460 --> 00:08:12,820 It is, it is. It is. 186 00:08:12,820 --> 00:08:14,540 And not long until I'll have my baby in here too, 187 00:08:14,540 --> 00:08:14,780 And not long until so, it'll all feel better. 188 00:08:14,780 --> 00:08:16,020 so, it'll all feel better. 189 00:08:16,020 --> 00:08:17,820 My first was born at 37 weeks, 190 00:08:17,820 --> 00:08:18,060 so, I'm guessing in the next eight My first was born at 37 weeks, 191 00:08:18,060 --> 00:08:21,460 so, I'm guessing in the next eight weeks she's going to be here, yep. 192 00:08:21,460 --> 00:08:22,500 Great. Yep. 193 00:08:26,860 --> 00:08:28,900 For the past seven days 194 00:08:28,900 --> 00:08:34,780 Alysha's been in detox - a condition of entry for any new residents here. 195 00:08:34,780 --> 00:08:37,340 What was it that you were detoxing from? 196 00:08:37,340 --> 00:08:41,100 So, I was detoxing from cannabis and ice. Yep. 197 00:08:41,100 --> 00:08:43,060 So, I haven't used ice the whole pregnancy, 198 00:08:43,060 --> 00:08:47,060 but I kept relapsing and I was using cannabis. 199 00:08:47,060 --> 00:08:50,380 But I definitely don't wanna do any of that ever again, 200 00:08:50,380 --> 00:08:52,060 so, I'm in the right place for that. 201 00:08:52,060 --> 00:08:55,540 Can you try and explain to me why you use 202 00:08:55,540 --> 00:08:58,660 even though you are pregnant and you know that in your head? 203 00:08:58,660 --> 00:09:02,100 Well, I can't even really give you a solid answer, 204 00:09:02,100 --> 00:09:03,660 but, like, I didn't plan to get pregnant, 205 00:09:03,660 --> 00:09:06,180 so, I was already using when I fell pregnant. 206 00:09:06,180 --> 00:09:07,780 Two, like, there's a lot of stuff 207 00:09:07,780 --> 00:09:10,140 that's happened in the last three years 208 00:09:10,140 --> 00:09:13,220 that, you know, I've tried to, like, forget about, 209 00:09:13,220 --> 00:09:15,980 so, you know, I just was using, using... 210 00:09:15,980 --> 00:09:17,820 Yeah. But then at the end of the day 211 00:09:17,820 --> 00:09:20,100 I thought, well, how am I gonna live with myself 212 00:09:20,100 --> 00:09:21,940 when I have this baby and look at this baby 213 00:09:21,940 --> 00:09:23,540 and know that I used when I'm pregnant? 214 00:09:23,540 --> 00:09:26,660 So, I have to make some positive out of this, you know? 215 00:09:29,220 --> 00:09:30,700 What we're gonna start looking at... 216 00:09:30,700 --> 00:09:33,100 Later, at her first consult, 217 00:09:33,100 --> 00:09:37,820 Alysha tells her case manager it's been difficult to find help. 218 00:09:37,820 --> 00:09:39,060 There's been points at my life 219 00:09:39,060 --> 00:09:40,540 where I've been in hospitals 220 00:09:40,540 --> 00:09:42,220 and I've been, like, 221 00:09:42,220 --> 00:09:44,020 begging, crying for help, 222 00:09:44,020 --> 00:09:45,180 and they've just looked at me like, 223 00:09:45,180 --> 00:09:47,420 "You're a worthless junkie," kind of thing, you know? 224 00:09:47,420 --> 00:09:47,660 "You're a worthless junkie," Or "You're just drug-affected." 225 00:09:47,660 --> 00:09:48,700 Or "You're just drug-affected." 226 00:09:48,700 --> 00:09:50,700 So, do you find people don't understand addiction? 227 00:09:50,700 --> 00:09:52,420 Yeah, they don't. But, also, 228 00:09:52,420 --> 00:09:55,860 when you're going through trauma AND addiction at the same time, 229 00:09:55,860 --> 00:09:56,100 when you're going through trauma you need help for that. 230 00:09:56,100 --> 00:09:57,580 you need help for that. 231 00:09:57,580 --> 00:09:57,820 And, it's shameful you need help for that. 232 00:09:57,820 --> 00:10:01,780 And, it's shameful to be even reaching out for help 233 00:10:01,780 --> 00:10:02,020 And, it's shameful as a pregnant person using drugs, 234 00:10:02,020 --> 00:10:03,540 as a pregnant person using drugs, 235 00:10:03,540 --> 00:10:06,820 but, like, if I can do it and I can get better 236 00:10:06,820 --> 00:10:09,340 and I can be a good person for me and my kids, 237 00:10:09,340 --> 00:10:10,980 maybe I can help someone else. 238 00:10:14,260 --> 00:10:16,860 (BABY SNUFFLES) 239 00:10:23,820 --> 00:10:25,500 TERRIANNE: (SOFTLY) It's OK. 240 00:10:26,780 --> 00:10:31,460 Terrianne has been in rehab for the past three months. 241 00:10:31,460 --> 00:10:34,460 She recently gave birth to baby Lockie. 242 00:10:36,020 --> 00:10:38,260 Hey, Terrie! Hello! 243 00:10:38,260 --> 00:10:40,100 How are you? I'm good. How are you? 244 00:10:40,100 --> 00:10:40,980 Good. 245 00:10:40,980 --> 00:10:42,740 This is Lockie. This is Lockie? (CHUCKLES) 246 00:10:42,740 --> 00:10:42,980 This is Lockie. Oh, my God, look at his hair. 247 00:10:42,980 --> 00:10:45,220 Oh, my God, look at his hair. 248 00:10:45,220 --> 00:10:47,340 It's crazy. Does everyone say that? 249 00:10:47,340 --> 00:10:50,540 Everyone does. We're stopped in the shops all the time. 250 00:10:50,540 --> 00:10:54,060 He's now living with her as she completes the program. 251 00:10:54,060 --> 00:10:56,900 So, can you tell me a bit about how you've ended up here? 252 00:10:56,900 --> 00:11:02,060 So, I had a 19-year addiction of weed and ice. 253 00:11:02,060 --> 00:11:02,300 So, I had a 19-year addiction And I tried quitting a few times, 254 00:11:02,300 --> 00:11:04,980 And I tried quitting a few times, 255 00:11:04,980 --> 00:11:07,780 been to detox three times, 256 00:11:07,780 --> 00:11:09,340 but never ever considered rehab 257 00:11:09,340 --> 00:11:09,580 'cause I thought I was too good, but never ever considered rehab 258 00:11:09,580 --> 00:11:12,180 'cause I thought I was too good, I could do it myself. 259 00:11:12,180 --> 00:11:12,420 'cause I thought I was too good, Clearly I wasn't. (CHUCKLES) 260 00:11:12,420 --> 00:11:13,900 Clearly I wasn't. (CHUCKLES) 261 00:11:13,900 --> 00:11:16,060 I've got a few children. 262 00:11:16,060 --> 00:11:16,300 So, Lockie's not your first? I've got a few children. 263 00:11:16,300 --> 00:11:18,780 So, Lockie's not your first? No. Lockie's my eighth. 264 00:11:18,780 --> 00:11:19,860 Wow. Yeah. 265 00:11:19,860 --> 00:11:22,180 My lucky last, my lucky eighth. Yeah. 266 00:11:22,180 --> 00:11:22,420 My lucky last, my lucky eighth. (CRIES) 267 00:11:22,420 --> 00:11:23,820 (CRIES) 268 00:11:23,820 --> 00:11:25,220 Oh, buddy, come here. 269 00:11:25,220 --> 00:11:27,660 Come here! 270 00:11:27,660 --> 00:11:29,380 Mwah. What's wrong? 271 00:11:29,380 --> 00:11:31,300 Oh, mate. 272 00:11:31,300 --> 00:11:34,060 This is the first time in two decades 273 00:11:34,060 --> 00:11:37,940 that Terrianne has completely stopped using drugs. 274 00:11:39,340 --> 00:11:42,380 So, you haven't touched ice or cannabis in seven months? 275 00:11:42,380 --> 00:11:43,420 No. 276 00:11:43,420 --> 00:11:45,060 It was really hard. Yeah. 277 00:11:45,060 --> 00:11:45,300 It was really hard. So, I was, like, a everyday user... 278 00:11:45,300 --> 00:11:47,380 So, I was, like, a everyday user... 279 00:11:47,380 --> 00:11:48,180 Mm. 280 00:11:48,180 --> 00:11:49,740 ..so, I had to wean myself off it 281 00:11:49,740 --> 00:11:52,220 and then just, yeah, pretty much quit. 282 00:11:52,220 --> 00:11:52,460 and then just, yeah, I guess, just doing the maths, 283 00:11:52,460 --> 00:11:53,780 I guess, just doing the maths, 284 00:11:53,780 --> 00:11:54,020 that means that you were still using I guess, just doing the maths, 285 00:11:54,020 --> 00:11:58,420 that means that you were still using for some time during the pregnancy? 286 00:11:58,420 --> 00:12:03,020 For the first month to the third month of Lockie's life, 287 00:12:03,020 --> 00:12:03,260 For the first month of growing inside me, 288 00:12:03,260 --> 00:12:04,980 of growing inside me, 289 00:12:04,980 --> 00:12:05,940 I did, yeah. 290 00:12:05,940 --> 00:12:08,020 How does that make you feel now, 291 00:12:08,020 --> 00:12:11,460 looking back on that first trimester, 292 00:12:11,460 --> 00:12:13,940 knowing that you were using during that period? 293 00:12:13,940 --> 00:12:14,900 It was hard. 294 00:12:14,900 --> 00:12:19,380 Like, I feel happy now 295 00:12:19,380 --> 00:12:23,740 that it wasn't the whole way through like the other children. 296 00:12:23,740 --> 00:12:27,140 In the past with one of my children... 297 00:12:28,100 --> 00:12:29,940 ..they were withdrawing, 298 00:12:29,940 --> 00:12:33,780 and that was because I used the whole way through the pregnancy, 299 00:12:33,780 --> 00:12:36,020 I couldn't stop, I was still in that bad addiction. 300 00:12:36,020 --> 00:12:36,260 I couldn't stop, Yeah. 301 00:12:36,260 --> 00:12:37,220 Yeah. 302 00:12:37,220 --> 00:12:39,100 I tried to stop, but I just couldn't. 303 00:12:39,100 --> 00:12:39,340 I tried to stop, (FUSSES) 304 00:12:39,340 --> 00:12:40,580 (FUSSES) 305 00:12:40,580 --> 00:12:42,460 That full big belly you've got. 306 00:12:43,420 --> 00:12:44,980 You alright, buddy? 307 00:12:44,980 --> 00:12:47,700 It's got bones in it. (CHUCKLES) 308 00:12:47,700 --> 00:12:48,620 (CHUCKLES) 309 00:12:48,620 --> 00:12:53,900 Have you forgiven yourself for using during the pregnancies? 310 00:12:53,900 --> 00:12:55,740 Yeah, I have. Yeah. 311 00:12:55,740 --> 00:12:58,740 It... Well, I used to blame myself for a lot of things, 312 00:12:58,740 --> 00:12:58,980 It... Well, I used to blame myself but, um... 313 00:12:58,980 --> 00:13:00,540 but, um... 314 00:13:01,500 --> 00:13:04,860 ..in my eyes, it's not really my fault. 315 00:13:06,060 --> 00:13:09,140 Something happened to me when I was a 13-year-old child, 316 00:13:09,140 --> 00:13:09,380 Something happened to me which started my addiction from 13. 317 00:13:09,380 --> 00:13:13,460 which started my addiction from 13. 318 00:13:13,460 --> 00:13:15,220 That's all I really knew. 319 00:13:15,220 --> 00:13:19,460 So, I didn't know any different, it was just...yeah, a repetitive cycle. 320 00:13:19,460 --> 00:13:22,740 It's like coming from two points of view for me 321 00:13:22,740 --> 00:13:22,980 It's like coming because I've met you now 322 00:13:22,980 --> 00:13:25,220 because I've met you now 323 00:13:25,220 --> 00:13:28,900 and I can see how much you obviously love Lockie... 324 00:13:28,900 --> 00:13:29,900 Yeah. ..and, for me, 325 00:13:29,900 --> 00:13:30,140 Yeah. it's trying to correlate that 326 00:13:30,140 --> 00:13:31,380 it's trying to correlate that 327 00:13:31,380 --> 00:13:31,620 with you being pregnant it's trying to correlate that 328 00:13:31,620 --> 00:13:36,460 with you being pregnant and taking drugs at that time, 329 00:13:36,460 --> 00:13:42,100 and, you know, you just think that a mother's love is going to trump all. 330 00:13:42,100 --> 00:13:42,340 and, you know, you just think that a How do you kind of explain 331 00:13:42,340 --> 00:13:45,620 How do you kind of explain 332 00:13:45,620 --> 00:13:51,340 why the drug can win over the safety of your growing baby? 333 00:13:51,340 --> 00:13:52,580 It was hard. 334 00:13:52,580 --> 00:13:54,980 I tried a lot of times to stop, 335 00:13:54,980 --> 00:13:58,860 but I guess the more you take, the longer you take it, 336 00:13:58,860 --> 00:13:59,100 but I guess the more you take, the addiction just stays there. 337 00:13:59,100 --> 00:14:01,460 the addiction just stays there. 338 00:14:01,460 --> 00:14:01,700 Addiction is a very vicious cycle. the addiction just stays there. 339 00:14:01,700 --> 00:14:04,140 Addiction is a very vicious cycle. Mm. 340 00:14:05,260 --> 00:14:08,980 OK, I'll just bring up the results. 341 00:14:08,980 --> 00:14:11,820 Drug testing isn't mandatory, 342 00:14:11,820 --> 00:14:12,060 but some residents Drug testing isn't mandatory, 343 00:14:12,060 --> 00:14:14,020 but some residents are regularly screened 344 00:14:14,020 --> 00:14:14,260 but some residents to keep themselves accountable. 345 00:14:14,260 --> 00:14:16,500 to keep themselves accountable. 346 00:14:16,500 --> 00:14:21,140 Terrianne's latest results have just come back. 347 00:14:21,140 --> 00:14:24,260 Terrianne's results have come up all clear for any substances. 348 00:14:24,260 --> 00:14:24,500 Terrianne's results have come up And we haven't had any issues 349 00:14:24,500 --> 00:14:25,580 And we haven't had any issues 350 00:14:25,580 --> 00:14:28,260 with any of her results that have come through. 351 00:14:28,260 --> 00:14:30,140 And that's all clear since she got here? 352 00:14:30,140 --> 00:14:32,580 All clear since she's come in, yep, correct. 353 00:14:33,540 --> 00:14:35,740 Hey, guys. 354 00:14:35,740 --> 00:14:37,340 (LAUGHTER, CHATTER) 355 00:14:37,340 --> 00:14:37,580 Take a seat, (LAUGHTER, CHATTER) 356 00:14:37,580 --> 00:14:40,900 Take a seat, we're just finishing up. 357 00:14:40,900 --> 00:14:44,260 What makes Bridgehaven different to many other rehab programs 358 00:14:44,260 --> 00:14:44,500 What makes Bridgehaven different is its approach to addiction. 359 00:14:44,500 --> 00:14:47,180 is its approach to addiction. 360 00:14:47,180 --> 00:14:49,740 Well, I guess it's an interesting time to say, 361 00:14:49,740 --> 00:14:51,140 like, there's a lot of rehabs out there, 362 00:14:51,140 --> 00:14:55,700 so, what was your reasoning behind choosing this one? 363 00:14:55,700 --> 00:14:59,940 There's that flexibility to have your child here with you. 364 00:14:59,940 --> 00:15:01,180 That is incredible. 365 00:15:01,180 --> 00:15:03,700 The number one is no men. 366 00:15:03,700 --> 00:15:04,740 (LAUGHS) 367 00:15:04,740 --> 00:15:06,980 Feels safe as. Yeah. 368 00:15:06,980 --> 00:15:08,220 And I know I can't fall pregnant. 369 00:15:08,220 --> 00:15:11,940 (ALL LAUGH) 370 00:15:11,940 --> 00:15:13,620 Can we say hallelujah? 371 00:15:13,620 --> 00:15:14,740 (ALL LAUGH) 372 00:15:14,740 --> 00:15:14,980 The program tries to keep women (ALL LAUGH) 373 00:15:14,980 --> 00:15:19,780 The program tries to keep women in treatment, whatever it takes. 374 00:15:19,780 --> 00:15:20,020 The program tries to keep women Do you kick people out 375 00:15:20,020 --> 00:15:21,260 Do you kick people out 376 00:15:21,260 --> 00:15:22,940 if they come here for treatment 377 00:15:22,940 --> 00:15:26,300 and then they end up taking drugs throughout? 378 00:15:26,300 --> 00:15:27,940 No. No, we don't. 379 00:15:27,940 --> 00:15:28,180 We recognise that relapse is, you know, a chronic condition, No. No, we don't. 380 00:15:28,180 --> 00:15:33,900 We recognise that relapse is, you know, a chronic condition, 381 00:15:33,900 --> 00:15:34,180 We recognise that relapse is, you know, a chronic condition, and, you know, we work with people relapsing. 382 00:15:34,180 --> 00:15:37,220 and, you know, we work with people relapsing. 383 00:15:37,220 --> 00:15:40,380 We do not discharge people 384 00:15:40,380 --> 00:15:46,180 for the very behaviours that, you know, they're here to change. 385 00:15:55,980 --> 00:16:00,900 The use of methamphetamines across Australia is rampant. 386 00:16:00,900 --> 00:16:05,180 It's considered our most harmful illicit drug. 387 00:16:07,860 --> 00:16:09,460 Hi, Dan. 388 00:16:09,460 --> 00:16:10,820 Hello, Grace. Nice to meet you. 389 00:16:10,820 --> 00:16:12,700 Nice to meet you too. Come on in. 390 00:16:12,700 --> 00:16:12,940 Nice to meet you too. Former Crown prosecutor Dan Howard 391 00:16:12,940 --> 00:16:14,820 Former Crown prosecutor Dan Howard 392 00:16:14,820 --> 00:16:19,300 was the commissioner of a special New South Wales inquiry into ice. 393 00:16:19,300 --> 00:16:20,220 Please be seated. 394 00:16:20,220 --> 00:16:22,140 He received hundreds of submissions 395 00:16:22,140 --> 00:16:22,340 and heard hours of evidence, He received hundreds of submissions 396 00:16:22,340 --> 00:16:24,100 and heard hours of evidence, 397 00:16:24,100 --> 00:16:27,820 including from pregnant drug users. 398 00:16:27,820 --> 00:16:28,020 The stigma is just huge, including from pregnant drug users. 399 00:16:28,020 --> 00:16:30,020 The stigma is just huge, 400 00:16:30,020 --> 00:16:35,060 and we have to grow up as a society and get over it. 401 00:16:35,060 --> 00:16:35,300 and we have to grow up as a society and get over it. These people need help. 402 00:16:35,300 --> 00:16:37,060 These people need help. 403 00:16:37,060 --> 00:16:39,300 Harm reduction is the key, 404 00:16:39,300 --> 00:16:43,340 and the only way you're going to help these people reduce the harm 405 00:16:43,340 --> 00:16:46,700 is by encouraging them to come forward 406 00:16:46,700 --> 00:16:46,940 is by encouraging them rather than stigmatising them. 407 00:16:46,940 --> 00:16:48,820 rather than stigmatising them. 408 00:16:48,820 --> 00:16:51,260 Particularly for pregnant women, 409 00:16:51,260 --> 00:16:56,780 did you find that the stigma was even worse than a regular drug user? 410 00:16:56,780 --> 00:17:02,540 To be honest, I think that a lot of people are reviled by the thought 411 00:17:02,540 --> 00:17:05,700 that, you know, how could a mother-to-be 412 00:17:05,700 --> 00:17:08,020 continue with the use of drugs? 413 00:17:08,020 --> 00:17:11,660 But to feel that way is immature. 414 00:17:11,660 --> 00:17:14,140 It shows a complete lack of understanding 415 00:17:14,140 --> 00:17:15,580 of the nature of addiction. 416 00:17:15,580 --> 00:17:20,820 One of his key recommendations was to decriminalise personal use 417 00:17:20,820 --> 00:17:24,660 and instead treat meth addiction as a health problem. 418 00:17:24,660 --> 00:17:29,900 So far the ACT is the only place in Australia to do this. 419 00:17:29,900 --> 00:17:34,340 If we address these things head-on squarely with a proper policy, 420 00:17:34,340 --> 00:17:34,580 If we address these things head-on we will save money hand-over-fist. 421 00:17:34,580 --> 00:17:37,380 we will save money hand-over-fist. 422 00:17:37,380 --> 00:17:39,180 There is no doubt about that. 423 00:17:39,180 --> 00:17:39,420 If you add the productivity There is no doubt about that. 424 00:17:39,420 --> 00:17:43,260 If you add the productivity of people if they're well again, 425 00:17:43,260 --> 00:17:46,420 if they have received the treatment that they need, 426 00:17:46,420 --> 00:17:46,660 if they have received we'll be a much healthier society. 427 00:17:46,660 --> 00:17:48,900 we'll be a much healthier society. 428 00:18:00,940 --> 00:18:03,460 Women who use ice during pregnancy 429 00:18:03,460 --> 00:18:06,340 have often experienced immense trauma, 430 00:18:06,340 --> 00:18:10,140 from domestic violence to childhood sexual abuse, 431 00:18:10,140 --> 00:18:12,860 and have complex mental-health problems. 432 00:18:14,900 --> 00:18:19,300 Poverty and homelessness are also common. 433 00:18:21,180 --> 00:18:24,860 So, we're going to visit this place here called The Living Room. 434 00:18:24,860 --> 00:18:28,180 It's basically a service for people who are sleeping rough, 435 00:18:28,180 --> 00:18:28,420 It's basically a service in crisis situations. 436 00:18:28,420 --> 00:18:30,220 in crisis situations. 437 00:18:30,220 --> 00:18:32,420 And I'm told that this is also 438 00:18:32,420 --> 00:18:32,660 where a lot of pregnant women And I'm told that this is also 439 00:18:32,660 --> 00:18:36,540 where a lot of pregnant women who have drug issues turn up as well 440 00:18:36,540 --> 00:18:39,420 when they have literally nowhere else to go. 441 00:18:46,300 --> 00:18:50,260 The drop-in centre provides free meals and medical appointments, 442 00:18:50,260 --> 00:18:52,540 including an on-site GP. 443 00:18:54,300 --> 00:18:57,100 Oh, hello. It's Dr Daniela speaking. 444 00:18:57,100 --> 00:18:57,340 This morning Dr Daniela is trying Oh, hello. It's Dr Daniela speaking. 445 00:18:57,340 --> 00:19:01,620 This morning Dr Daniela is trying to contact a pregnant patient 446 00:19:01,620 --> 00:19:03,140 who's due for a check-up. 447 00:19:03,140 --> 00:19:05,620 Oh, from The Living Room. Have I got... 448 00:19:06,580 --> 00:19:08,300 Oh, have you? No worries. 449 00:19:08,300 --> 00:19:11,660 Davida's coming in for her follow-up appointment today, 450 00:19:11,660 --> 00:19:11,900 Davida's coming in just a general check-up and a chat. 451 00:19:11,900 --> 00:19:15,460 just a general check-up and a chat. 452 00:19:15,460 --> 00:19:15,700 Davida's been homeless just a general check-up and a chat. 453 00:19:15,700 --> 00:19:19,700 Davida's been homeless for the majority of her pregnancy. 454 00:19:19,700 --> 00:19:19,980 She hasn't engaged much with services Davida's been homeless for the majority of her pregnancy. 455 00:19:19,980 --> 00:19:23,220 She hasn't engaged much with services 456 00:19:23,220 --> 00:19:26,740 in the earlier stages of the pregnancy, 457 00:19:26,740 --> 00:19:27,020 in the earlier stages of the pregnancy, but the past three weeks since she's been housed 458 00:19:27,020 --> 00:19:29,140 but the past three weeks since she's been housed 459 00:19:29,140 --> 00:19:31,620 she's been attending WADS 460 00:19:31,620 --> 00:19:34,540 and she's coming in today to have a check-up here, 461 00:19:34,540 --> 00:19:38,380 which is great, but it has taken her a while to get to this point. 462 00:19:38,380 --> 00:19:41,300 So, yeah, hopefully everything's going OK. 463 00:19:41,300 --> 00:19:43,820 Five minutes away? Oh, that's good to hear. OK. 464 00:19:43,820 --> 00:19:46,140 No worries. We'll see you when you get here. 465 00:19:46,140 --> 00:19:46,380 No worries. OK. Bye-bye. Ta. 466 00:19:46,380 --> 00:19:48,100 OK. Bye-bye. Ta. 467 00:19:49,060 --> 00:19:50,700 Come on, babe. 468 00:19:50,700 --> 00:19:52,580 (KNOCKS) 469 00:19:53,900 --> 00:19:58,980 An hour later Davida and her partner, Daniel, finally arrive. 470 00:20:01,340 --> 00:20:02,340 Hi! Hi. 471 00:20:02,340 --> 00:20:04,620 How are you? Good. 472 00:20:04,620 --> 00:20:05,740 That's good. Hi, Daniel. 473 00:20:05,740 --> 00:20:06,860 Hi! How are you? 474 00:20:06,860 --> 00:20:09,100 Yeah, good. How are you? That's good. Good! 475 00:20:09,100 --> 00:20:12,420 And how's the baby been going? A lot of... A lot of movement. 476 00:20:12,420 --> 00:20:14,940 So, I'll do your blood pressure, have a feel. 477 00:20:14,940 --> 00:20:17,300 Do you mind lying on this? 478 00:20:19,460 --> 00:20:20,780 Oh, wow. 479 00:20:20,780 --> 00:20:24,940 It's only 16 days until Davida's due date. 480 00:20:24,940 --> 00:20:26,700 Oh, you've got the due date there, in case. (LAUGHS) 481 00:20:26,700 --> 00:20:26,940 Oh, you've got the due date there, Yeah. (LAUGHS) 482 00:20:26,940 --> 00:20:28,220 Yeah. (LAUGHS) 483 00:20:28,220 --> 00:20:28,460 Dr Daniela is eager for her to have Yeah. (LAUGHS) 484 00:20:28,460 --> 00:20:33,780 Dr Daniela is eager for her to have another ultrasound before the birth. 485 00:20:33,780 --> 00:20:35,980 He's measuring a little bit small, bub. 486 00:20:35,980 --> 00:20:36,220 He's measuring Yeah. 487 00:20:36,220 --> 00:20:36,980 Yeah. 488 00:20:36,980 --> 00:20:40,580 So, he's measuring about 33 centimetres rather than 37, 489 00:20:40,580 --> 00:20:42,820 so, I just want them to have a good look at that. 490 00:20:42,820 --> 00:20:44,700 Hopefully you don't go into labour before Monday 491 00:20:44,700 --> 00:20:44,940 Hopefully you don't so you can get some preparation in. 492 00:20:44,940 --> 00:20:46,900 so you can get some preparation in. 493 00:20:47,860 --> 00:20:53,380 Later Davida tells me her substance issues are weighing heavily on her. 494 00:20:53,380 --> 00:20:53,620 Later Davida tells me her substance What are those concerns? 495 00:20:53,620 --> 00:20:54,860 What are those concerns? 496 00:20:54,860 --> 00:20:58,180 What are the big worries on your mind at this point? 497 00:20:58,180 --> 00:21:00,540 Just like with anyone, 498 00:21:00,540 --> 00:21:03,500 if they do needles or... 499 00:21:03,500 --> 00:21:05,300 ..you know, you could OD, you could have a shot, 500 00:21:05,300 --> 00:21:05,540 ..you know, you could OD, you could have a dirty anything, 501 00:21:05,540 --> 00:21:08,100 you could have a dirty anything, 502 00:21:08,100 --> 00:21:08,340 and it can happen you could have a dirty anything, 503 00:21:08,340 --> 00:21:10,740 and it can happen to a baby any time. 504 00:21:10,740 --> 00:21:13,420 You know, like, the baby's only tiny, 505 00:21:13,420 --> 00:21:18,060 and the amount of drugs that a drug addict takes on 506 00:21:18,060 --> 00:21:18,300 and the amount of drugs and injects in their body 507 00:21:18,300 --> 00:21:20,540 and injects in their body 508 00:21:20,540 --> 00:21:24,820 is way more than what a poor little baby can have, you know, like... 509 00:21:24,820 --> 00:21:26,540 From the start 510 00:21:26,540 --> 00:21:32,220 it's been not just my life that's in...you know, in jeopardy, 511 00:21:32,220 --> 00:21:33,780 it's baby's as well. 512 00:21:33,780 --> 00:21:37,940 Why isn't it as easy, though, as just saying no? 513 00:21:37,940 --> 00:21:40,820 Like, obviously there's something more there for you 514 00:21:40,820 --> 00:21:41,060 Like, obviously that keeps drawing you back to it. 515 00:21:41,060 --> 00:21:42,740 that keeps drawing you back to it. 516 00:21:42,740 --> 00:21:43,940 I think it's... 517 00:21:43,940 --> 00:21:45,620 Oh... 518 00:21:45,620 --> 00:21:47,380 A craving. 519 00:21:48,460 --> 00:21:51,140 But, at the same time, 520 00:21:51,140 --> 00:21:52,500 I don't want to... 521 00:21:52,500 --> 00:21:55,140 Like, I don't want to hurt my baby. 522 00:21:55,140 --> 00:21:57,180 At the end of the day 523 00:21:57,180 --> 00:21:59,740 I've gotta tell myself that there's a cut-off period. 524 00:21:59,740 --> 00:21:59,980 I've gotta tell myself So, I've gotta really do it myself, 525 00:21:59,980 --> 00:22:01,420 So, I've gotta really do it myself, 526 00:22:01,420 --> 00:22:04,620 but I can't in a... 527 00:22:04,620 --> 00:22:07,460 ..state where... 528 00:22:07,460 --> 00:22:09,860 ..it's, you know, it's so tempting. 529 00:22:09,860 --> 00:22:11,700 Yeah. It's the temptation... 530 00:22:11,700 --> 00:22:15,140 Yeah. ..too that... It lures you to it. 531 00:22:15,140 --> 00:22:15,380 Yeah. You know, like, you just give in. 532 00:22:15,380 --> 00:22:18,820 You know, like, you just give in. 533 00:22:18,820 --> 00:22:20,300 (INDISTINCT CHATTER) 534 00:22:20,300 --> 00:22:24,740 Davida comes here for help a few times a week. 535 00:22:24,740 --> 00:22:26,980 She's only recently been housed somewhere 536 00:22:26,980 --> 00:22:29,020 she can take her baby home to. 537 00:22:29,020 --> 00:22:31,540 Part of the struggle, she says, 538 00:22:31,540 --> 00:22:35,020 has been the stigma she faces at every turn. 539 00:22:36,260 --> 00:22:38,460 There's plenty of it. 540 00:22:38,460 --> 00:22:43,140 Even with just body language, how people look at you. 541 00:22:43,140 --> 00:22:43,900 Yeah. 542 00:22:43,900 --> 00:22:45,380 And that's what makes you wanna hide out 543 00:22:45,380 --> 00:22:48,340 and makes you want to just numb it once again 544 00:22:48,340 --> 00:22:53,220 and it brings you back to step one of the depression, yeah. 545 00:22:53,220 --> 00:22:54,700 It is hard, 546 00:22:54,700 --> 00:22:57,500 but at the same time, yeah... 547 00:22:57,500 --> 00:23:02,300 ..like, you've got all these people in here that help out. 548 00:23:02,300 --> 00:23:06,220 So, yeah, it sort of takes your mind off it. 549 00:23:06,220 --> 00:23:11,900 And, um...yeah, just sticking with the...the positivity 550 00:23:11,900 --> 00:23:12,140 And, um...yeah, just sticking is the main thing. 551 00:23:12,140 --> 00:23:13,860 is the main thing. 552 00:23:13,860 --> 00:23:16,260 Yeah. That's getting me through. 553 00:23:16,260 --> 00:23:18,300 And now having the house, 554 00:23:18,300 --> 00:23:24,260 it's lifted a weight off my shoulders so much. 555 00:23:24,260 --> 00:23:26,020 So, it's hope in a way? Yeah. 556 00:23:26,020 --> 00:23:27,780 You feel some hope now? It's... Yeah. 557 00:23:27,780 --> 00:23:28,020 You feel some hope now? In the end 558 00:23:28,020 --> 00:23:29,260 In the end 559 00:23:29,260 --> 00:23:32,700 the temptation goes because you're getting confidence then, 560 00:23:32,700 --> 00:23:37,260 and with the confidence, it's the best feeling. 561 00:23:51,540 --> 00:23:55,460 There is hope even when a pregnant woman is using drugs. 562 00:23:55,460 --> 00:24:00,020 Steps can be taken to minimise the risks. 563 00:24:00,020 --> 00:24:02,700 It just takes a weight off your mind. 564 00:24:02,700 --> 00:24:03,700 That's right. 565 00:24:03,700 --> 00:24:05,940 Yeah, you're not doing this alone. Nope. 566 00:24:06,900 --> 00:24:10,860 At the Women's Alcohol and Drug Service in Melbourne 567 00:24:10,860 --> 00:24:15,900 pregnancy is treated as a window of opportunity to stop addiction. 568 00:24:15,900 --> 00:24:18,860 It is a time when women are super motivated, 569 00:24:18,860 --> 00:24:19,140 and we know that there is always potential to improve the situation. It is a time when women are super motivated, 570 00:24:19,140 --> 00:24:23,940 and we know that there is always potential to improve the situation. 571 00:24:23,940 --> 00:24:26,820 So, we know that, even if babies are drug-exposed, 572 00:24:26,820 --> 00:24:27,100 So, we know that, even if babies are drug-exposed, a reduction in the amount of drugs makes a difference. 573 00:24:27,100 --> 00:24:29,780 a reduction in the amount of drugs makes a difference. 574 00:24:29,780 --> 00:24:32,740 We know that if mums can perhaps cease their drug use 575 00:24:32,740 --> 00:24:34,820 by the time it's the third trimester, 576 00:24:34,820 --> 00:24:36,300 then the baby's very unlikely 577 00:24:36,300 --> 00:24:38,780 to go through a difficult withdrawal after birth 578 00:24:38,780 --> 00:24:40,700 and need medical treatment there. 579 00:24:40,700 --> 00:24:40,940 Whenever we meet and need medical treatment there. 580 00:24:40,940 --> 00:24:43,300 Whenever we meet a woman on her journey, 581 00:24:43,300 --> 00:24:43,540 Whenever we meet we CAN make a difference. 582 00:24:43,540 --> 00:24:45,020 we CAN make a difference. 583 00:24:45,020 --> 00:24:46,540 And, so, today you'll find out... 584 00:24:46,540 --> 00:24:50,580 Today Alysha has come in from rehab for a check-up. 585 00:24:50,580 --> 00:24:51,780 How are you feeling physically? 586 00:24:51,780 --> 00:24:53,580 I'm excited to see the baby. 587 00:24:53,580 --> 00:24:56,620 You've definitely popped since the last time I saw you. 588 00:24:56,620 --> 00:24:58,260 (LAUGHS) Yeah, I know, all we do is eat. 589 00:24:58,260 --> 00:24:58,500 (LAUGHS) Yeah, I know, (BOTH LAUGH) 590 00:24:58,500 --> 00:25:00,380 (BOTH LAUGH) 591 00:25:00,380 --> 00:25:04,900 I want my baby to be healthy and stay in as long as she can. 592 00:25:04,900 --> 00:25:06,740 And have you been asking lots of questions 593 00:25:06,740 --> 00:25:08,980 about, you know, whether there's gonna be any impacts 594 00:25:08,980 --> 00:25:09,220 about, you know, from the earlier drug use? 595 00:25:09,220 --> 00:25:10,540 from the earlier drug use? 596 00:25:10,540 --> 00:25:12,740 They seem to think everything will be fine, so... 597 00:25:12,740 --> 00:25:15,020 Because you stopped early enough? Yeah. 598 00:25:15,020 --> 00:25:18,100 And I've been eating and doing all the right things now, 599 00:25:18,100 --> 00:25:19,980 so, you know what I mean? Yeah. 600 00:25:19,980 --> 00:25:21,620 Hi, Alysha! Hi! 601 00:25:21,620 --> 00:25:21,860 Hi, Alysha! I'm Robin. Lovely to meet you. 602 00:25:21,860 --> 00:25:23,180 I'm Robin. Lovely to meet you. 603 00:25:23,180 --> 00:25:23,420 Do you wanna come on through? I'm Robin. Lovely to meet you. 604 00:25:23,420 --> 00:25:24,660 Do you wanna come on through? Yep. 605 00:25:24,660 --> 00:25:28,180 Alysha's now three weeks into her recovery. 606 00:25:28,180 --> 00:25:28,420 Alysha's now Beautiful. 607 00:25:28,420 --> 00:25:29,900 Beautiful. 608 00:25:29,900 --> 00:25:30,140 So, this is baby's head here Beautiful. 609 00:25:30,140 --> 00:25:33,020 So, this is baby's head here down the bottom. 610 00:25:33,020 --> 00:25:36,500 And going up here we can see baby's heartbeat. 611 00:25:36,500 --> 00:25:39,020 We can have a listen here too for you. 612 00:25:40,740 --> 00:25:43,460 (HEARTBEAT THUDS) 613 00:25:43,460 --> 00:25:45,460 Ooh, and a kick! (BOTH LAUGH) 614 00:25:45,460 --> 00:25:47,060 I felt that too. Yep. 615 00:25:47,060 --> 00:25:52,940 Obstetrician Dr Robin Thurman specialises in high-risk pregnancies. 616 00:25:52,940 --> 00:25:54,220 Awesome. 617 00:25:54,220 --> 00:25:56,300 Yeah. All looking good. 618 00:25:56,300 --> 00:25:58,700 All done. 619 00:25:58,700 --> 00:26:00,940 So, what is it that you're looking for 620 00:26:00,940 --> 00:26:03,860 where there has been some drug use during a pregnancy? 621 00:26:03,860 --> 00:26:06,380 So, if a woman has used drugs during pregnancy, 622 00:26:06,380 --> 00:26:10,340 then we can see that the baby may not be as big as expected. 623 00:26:10,340 --> 00:26:11,580 Also we know that there's 624 00:26:11,580 --> 00:26:11,780 a higher risk of preterm birth. Also we know that there's 625 00:26:11,780 --> 00:26:13,820 a higher risk of preterm birth. 626 00:26:13,820 --> 00:26:16,700 That's not something we can always predict, though. 627 00:26:27,060 --> 00:26:29,500 There is only one study in the world 628 00:26:29,500 --> 00:26:31,340 that's tracked the long-term effects 629 00:26:31,340 --> 00:26:36,540 of prenatal meth exposure on children as they grow up. 630 00:26:38,020 --> 00:26:41,420 University of Auckland professor Dr Trecia Wouldes 631 00:26:41,420 --> 00:26:41,660 University of Auckland professor is one of the lead researchers. 632 00:26:41,660 --> 00:26:43,660 is one of the lead researchers. 633 00:26:45,460 --> 00:26:49,220 TRECIA WOULDES: There isn't any other longitudinal research. 634 00:26:49,220 --> 00:26:52,100 And we have followed them at a number of times - 635 00:26:52,100 --> 00:26:57,340 at birth, at one month, at 12 months, at 24 months, 636 00:26:57,340 --> 00:26:57,580 and on and on and on. at birth, at one month, at 12 months, at 24 months, 637 00:26:57,580 --> 00:26:59,020 and on and on and on. 638 00:26:59,020 --> 00:26:59,260 And we're currently and on and on and on. 639 00:26:59,260 --> 00:27:02,340 And we're currently doing a follow-up at... 640 00:27:02,340 --> 00:27:02,580 And we're currently ..the kids are 11 to 16. 641 00:27:02,580 --> 00:27:05,780 ..the kids are 11 to 16. 642 00:27:05,780 --> 00:27:06,020 ..the kids are 11 to 16. What have been your key findings of the impact on children? 643 00:27:06,020 --> 00:27:09,900 What have been your key findings of the impact on children? 644 00:27:09,900 --> 00:27:10,140 What have been your key findings Over the first three years 645 00:27:10,140 --> 00:27:11,420 Over the first three years 646 00:27:11,420 --> 00:27:11,660 we found that there were differences Over the first three years 647 00:27:11,660 --> 00:27:15,380 we found that there were differences in motor development 648 00:27:15,380 --> 00:27:15,620 we found that there were differences and in male babies 649 00:27:15,620 --> 00:27:17,420 and in male babies 650 00:27:17,420 --> 00:27:20,580 there were differences in their early problem solving, 651 00:27:20,580 --> 00:27:22,460 early language, those kinds of things. 652 00:27:22,460 --> 00:27:26,700 They were likely to walk later, sit up later. 653 00:27:26,700 --> 00:27:26,940 They were likely Over those first three years, 654 00:27:26,940 --> 00:27:28,220 Over those first three years, 655 00:27:28,220 --> 00:27:31,780 we found the methamphetamine babies were lagging behind. 656 00:27:31,780 --> 00:27:33,060 In New Zealand 657 00:27:33,060 --> 00:27:37,940 she's found that, as these kids develop, some issues can intensify. 658 00:27:37,940 --> 00:27:38,180 she's found that, as these kids What about these two children? 659 00:27:38,180 --> 00:27:39,980 What about these two children? 660 00:27:39,980 --> 00:27:40,220 The thing that we see the most What about these two children? 661 00:27:40,220 --> 00:27:43,260 The thing that we see the most is poor behaviour on these children. 662 00:27:44,700 --> 00:27:46,260 A conduct disorder 663 00:27:46,260 --> 00:27:50,220 is likely to be what you're going to see as they get older. 664 00:27:50,220 --> 00:27:52,140 Red. (CHUCKLES) 665 00:27:52,140 --> 00:27:55,180 When I talk to principals of primary schools, 666 00:27:55,180 --> 00:27:57,900 we're finding that if you've got four or five children 667 00:27:57,900 --> 00:28:00,420 that have been exposed to methamphetamine, 668 00:28:00,420 --> 00:28:02,060 in their classrooms 669 00:28:02,060 --> 00:28:05,820 it can be in incredibly disruptive for the whole school. 670 00:28:05,820 --> 00:28:09,900 Does meth use during pregnancy essentially cause brain damage? 671 00:28:09,900 --> 00:28:10,140 Does meth use during pregnancy It does affect the brain, 672 00:28:10,140 --> 00:28:12,380 It does affect the brain, 673 00:28:12,380 --> 00:28:15,060 but it isn't irreversible brain damage 674 00:28:15,060 --> 00:28:15,300 but it isn't irreversible because the brain is very plastic. 675 00:28:15,300 --> 00:28:17,140 because the brain is very plastic. 676 00:28:17,140 --> 00:28:20,620 So, if you go into a home where there's a lot of money 677 00:28:20,620 --> 00:28:22,860 and there's early intervention, 678 00:28:22,860 --> 00:28:27,140 these children can probably have, you know, a similar life 679 00:28:27,140 --> 00:28:30,740 as to a normal child who isn't exposed to this drug. 680 00:28:30,740 --> 00:28:30,980 as to a normal child However, it's not just the drug, 681 00:28:30,980 --> 00:28:33,420 However, it's not just the drug, 682 00:28:33,420 --> 00:28:36,620 it's also sometimes environments 683 00:28:36,620 --> 00:28:41,300 where there is domestic violence and poverty and other factors 684 00:28:41,300 --> 00:28:44,180 that we know affect child development. 685 00:28:44,180 --> 00:28:49,620 Disturbing data is now emerging in her current study of teenagers. 686 00:28:49,620 --> 00:28:52,940 These kids are reporting now self-harm. 687 00:28:52,940 --> 00:28:55,460 They're reporting thoughts about suicide. 688 00:28:55,460 --> 00:28:58,100 Some have attempted suicide. 689 00:28:58,100 --> 00:28:58,340 We haven't analysed Some have attempted suicide. 690 00:28:58,340 --> 00:29:00,300 We haven't analysed all of our data yet, 691 00:29:00,300 --> 00:29:03,780 but it...yeah, it is a poor story for these kids. 692 00:29:18,220 --> 00:29:20,260 ANNA TOTTMAN: Hello, Terrianne. Hi. How are you? 693 00:29:20,260 --> 00:29:22,260 Hi. I'm good. How are you? Not too bad. 694 00:29:22,260 --> 00:29:23,900 How's Lockie? He's great. 695 00:29:23,900 --> 00:29:24,140 How's Lockie? Come on through. 696 00:29:24,140 --> 00:29:25,020 Come on through. 697 00:29:25,020 --> 00:29:25,260 At the Women's Come on through. 698 00:29:25,260 --> 00:29:27,660 At the Women's Alcohol and Drug Service 699 00:29:27,660 --> 00:29:31,220 babies are followed up for the first two years of their life 700 00:29:31,220 --> 00:29:35,060 even though there's only government funding for six weeks. 701 00:29:35,060 --> 00:29:35,300 even though there's only Remind me how many weeks he is now? 702 00:29:35,300 --> 00:29:36,900 Remind me how many weeks he is now? 703 00:29:36,900 --> 00:29:37,860 12. 704 00:29:37,860 --> 00:29:40,340 12 weeks exactly. Yep. 705 00:29:40,340 --> 00:29:42,060 Great head of hair you have there, mate. 706 00:29:42,060 --> 00:29:42,300 Great head of hair you have there, He does. 707 00:29:42,300 --> 00:29:43,060 He does. 708 00:29:43,060 --> 00:29:43,300 Terrianne has brought Lockie in He does. 709 00:29:43,300 --> 00:29:45,820 Terrianne has brought Lockie in for a check-up 710 00:29:45,820 --> 00:29:46,060 Terrianne has brought Lockie in with neonatologist Dr Anna Tottman. 711 00:29:46,060 --> 00:29:48,740 with neonatologist Dr Anna Tottman. 712 00:29:48,740 --> 00:29:50,940 And my hands are cold. Sorry! 713 00:29:50,940 --> 00:29:52,100 Push them back. 714 00:29:52,100 --> 00:29:53,940 Ready again? 715 00:29:53,940 --> 00:29:55,500 Swing from side to side. 716 00:29:55,500 --> 00:29:58,580 Look at that - lovely and stable. 717 00:29:58,580 --> 00:29:59,860 What're you doing? 718 00:29:59,860 --> 00:30:02,060 And look at that lovely head control. 719 00:30:02,060 --> 00:30:02,340 And you can see that he's moving his legs beautifully. And look at that lovely head control. 720 00:30:02,340 --> 00:30:05,140 And you can see that he's moving his legs beautifully. 721 00:30:05,140 --> 00:30:06,140 Hello! 722 00:30:06,140 --> 00:30:06,340 Hello! Oh! Good chat. Alright, gold star. 723 00:30:06,340 --> 00:30:08,740 Oh! Good chat. Alright, gold star. 724 00:30:08,740 --> 00:30:09,740 Come on. 725 00:30:09,740 --> 00:30:15,820 Terrianne is told Lockie's progress so far appears promising. 726 00:30:15,820 --> 00:30:17,020 Well, he's growing beautifully. He is. 727 00:30:17,020 --> 00:30:19,020 Good on you. Well done. Thank you so much. 728 00:30:19,020 --> 00:30:22,980 And his development looks really on track at the moment. 729 00:30:22,980 --> 00:30:24,780 He's got lovely head control. 730 00:30:24,780 --> 00:30:26,780 He's obviously really alert and interested. 731 00:30:26,780 --> 00:30:27,020 He's obviously Alright, young man. 732 00:30:27,020 --> 00:30:28,220 Alright, young man. 733 00:30:28,220 --> 00:30:31,380 He'll come back for another check-up in four months. 734 00:30:31,380 --> 00:30:33,620 (GRIZZLES) Oh, grumpy bum. 735 00:30:33,620 --> 00:30:36,180 You can't just sign these children off 736 00:30:36,180 --> 00:30:38,860 at six weeks, three months, six months 737 00:30:38,860 --> 00:30:39,100 at six weeks, three months, and say everything's OK 738 00:30:39,100 --> 00:30:41,620 and say everything's OK 739 00:30:41,620 --> 00:30:43,580 because their brain development 740 00:30:43,580 --> 00:30:47,900 is ongoing for, really, the first two years very rapidly 741 00:30:47,900 --> 00:30:48,140 is ongoing for, really, and throughout childhood after that. 742 00:30:48,140 --> 00:30:49,620 and throughout childhood after that. 743 00:30:49,620 --> 00:30:53,180 It's too late once they're already delayed. 744 00:30:53,180 --> 00:30:55,980 You need to know beforehand which babies we should be supporting 745 00:30:55,980 --> 00:30:56,220 You need to know beforehand because if you miss that window 746 00:30:56,220 --> 00:30:57,620 because if you miss that window 747 00:30:57,620 --> 00:30:57,820 of brain plasticity in early life because if you miss that window 748 00:30:57,820 --> 00:31:00,060 of brain plasticity in early life 749 00:31:00,060 --> 00:31:02,260 you'll never get that back. 750 00:31:17,060 --> 00:31:19,420 In Sydney's western suburbs 751 00:31:19,420 --> 00:31:23,340 Dr Stacy Blythe sees the long-term consequences 752 00:31:23,340 --> 00:31:24,540 of prenatal drug exposure 753 00:31:24,540 --> 00:31:26,340 every day. 754 00:31:27,300 --> 00:31:28,580 Ah! 755 00:31:28,580 --> 00:31:28,820 Her foster son Bryce was placed Ah! 756 00:31:28,820 --> 00:31:33,900 Her foster son Bryce was placed into her care as a toddler. 757 00:31:38,980 --> 00:31:40,460 When he first came to me 758 00:31:40,460 --> 00:31:42,540 he was absolutely gorgeous little boy, 759 00:31:42,540 --> 00:31:46,820 but he was two years old and he was wearing a size zero 760 00:31:46,820 --> 00:31:49,900 and he was very small for his age. 761 00:31:49,900 --> 00:31:51,820 And, so, that really started 762 00:31:51,820 --> 00:31:52,020 my investigation. And, so, that really started 763 00:31:52,020 --> 00:31:53,300 my investigation. 764 00:31:53,300 --> 00:31:56,180 I took him to a paediatrician and had him looked at. 765 00:31:56,180 --> 00:31:56,420 I took him to a paediatrician He underwent some tests 766 00:31:56,420 --> 00:31:57,820 He underwent some tests 767 00:31:57,820 --> 00:32:00,620 and found that his growth hormone was low. 768 00:32:00,620 --> 00:32:00,900 and found that his growth hormone was low. And he's still quite small in stature compared to his peers. 769 00:32:00,900 --> 00:32:04,700 And he's still quite small in stature compared to his peers. 770 00:32:04,700 --> 00:32:04,940 And he's still quite small He also has issues with his eyes, 771 00:32:04,940 --> 00:32:06,860 He also has issues with his eyes, 772 00:32:06,860 --> 00:32:10,940 and then, of course, behavioural and neurologic issues as well. 773 00:32:10,940 --> 00:32:16,020 And they just slowly start to become apparent as they grow and develop 774 00:32:16,020 --> 00:32:19,140 and they're not necessarily meeting their milestones like they should. 775 00:32:20,100 --> 00:32:24,380 Stacy started researching to find out how she could help Bryce 776 00:32:24,380 --> 00:32:24,620 Stacy started researching to find out and other children she cares for. 777 00:32:24,620 --> 00:32:26,860 and other children she cares for. 778 00:32:26,860 --> 00:32:28,340 As an associate professor, 779 00:32:28,340 --> 00:32:32,260 she now publishes papers on prenatal drug exposure. 780 00:32:33,220 --> 00:32:35,420 When you understand the behaviours, 781 00:32:35,420 --> 00:32:37,180 when you understand the deficits 782 00:32:37,180 --> 00:32:38,980 and you understand the cause of them, 783 00:32:38,980 --> 00:32:41,820 it helps you to address them in a different way. 784 00:32:41,820 --> 00:32:43,260 It's not their fault. 785 00:32:43,260 --> 00:32:45,980 And I think it's the most important thing is to remember that. 786 00:32:45,980 --> 00:32:48,500 It's not their fault. They didn't have a choice. 787 00:32:48,500 --> 00:32:51,380 And children are full of potential. 788 00:32:51,380 --> 00:32:55,900 So, if I have the right information and I have the right support, 789 00:32:55,900 --> 00:32:57,940 I can make all the difference for them. 790 00:32:57,940 --> 00:33:02,460 What are some of the impacts that you've noticed over the years? 791 00:33:02,460 --> 00:33:03,980 I guess just understanding things, learning. 792 00:33:03,980 --> 00:33:08,540 So, school, even at my place of work and my career, 793 00:33:08,540 --> 00:33:11,060 just I have to be trained to do stuff 794 00:33:11,060 --> 00:33:13,660 and just in taking information how I understand it, 795 00:33:13,660 --> 00:33:17,580 how it needs to be given to me in order for me to understand things. 796 00:33:17,580 --> 00:33:21,340 It's different to a lot of people. It takes me a little bit longer. 797 00:33:21,340 --> 00:33:24,820 But once I've got it, I've got it, and then it just stays. 798 00:33:24,820 --> 00:33:27,180 Was that difficult during school? 799 00:33:27,180 --> 00:33:29,660 Yeah. Learning in school was very difficult. 800 00:33:29,660 --> 00:33:31,900 But I know I'm smart and I know I CAN do it, 801 00:33:31,900 --> 00:33:34,140 it's just the way I learn is different. 802 00:33:36,700 --> 00:33:38,740 Now 19 years old, 803 00:33:38,740 --> 00:33:43,380 Bryce is fully aware he was exposed to drugs before birth. 804 00:33:43,380 --> 00:33:43,620 Bryce is fully aware Do you ever feel frustration 805 00:33:43,620 --> 00:33:46,140 Do you ever feel frustration 806 00:33:46,140 --> 00:33:46,380 for your biological parents Do you ever feel frustration 807 00:33:46,380 --> 00:33:51,060 for your biological parents for putting you in this situation? 808 00:33:51,060 --> 00:33:51,300 for your biological parents All the time. 809 00:33:51,300 --> 00:33:52,860 All the time. 810 00:33:52,860 --> 00:33:54,540 I know some... 811 00:33:54,540 --> 00:33:54,780 I guess in a way they couldn't I know some... 812 00:33:54,780 --> 00:33:58,260 I guess in a way they couldn't control it because of addiction, 813 00:33:58,260 --> 00:33:58,500 I guess in a way they couldn't but it does frustrate me 814 00:33:58,500 --> 00:34:00,260 but it does frustrate me 815 00:34:00,260 --> 00:34:06,820 'cause when I experience issues related to being prenatally exposed, 816 00:34:06,820 --> 00:34:09,460 it...the frustration goes to them 817 00:34:09,460 --> 00:34:09,700 because the only reason that I am it...the frustration goes to them 818 00:34:09,700 --> 00:34:14,700 because the only reason that I am the way I am is because of them. 819 00:34:14,700 --> 00:34:18,460 There's... There's no other place to shift blame. 820 00:34:18,460 --> 00:34:18,700 There's... There's no other place It's at their doing. 821 00:34:18,700 --> 00:34:19,940 It's at their doing. 822 00:34:19,940 --> 00:34:20,180 What do you think could have been It's at their doing. 823 00:34:20,180 --> 00:34:23,460 What do you think could have been some of the outcomes for you 824 00:34:23,460 --> 00:34:25,620 if you hadn't been placed in Stacy's care 825 00:34:25,620 --> 00:34:28,660 and had such a loving family around you? 826 00:34:28,660 --> 00:34:30,980 Based off some of the friends I've had 827 00:34:30,980 --> 00:34:33,020 who've been in similar situations, 828 00:34:33,020 --> 00:34:35,740 uh...I could have ended up in custody, 829 00:34:35,740 --> 00:34:39,620 could have ended up incarcerated, on drugs, 830 00:34:39,620 --> 00:34:43,580 could have ended up in every bad path that there possibly is. 831 00:34:43,580 --> 00:34:43,820 could have ended up in every I've always been proud of myself 832 00:34:43,820 --> 00:34:45,300 I've always been proud of myself 833 00:34:45,300 --> 00:34:47,460 'cause anytime...like, with all the issues that I face, 834 00:34:47,460 --> 00:34:52,300 if I can overcome and adapt to them, then that's an achievement for me. 835 00:34:54,260 --> 00:34:55,820 This is what a journey looks like 836 00:34:55,820 --> 00:34:58,740 when you care for a child who's been prenatally substance exposed. 837 00:34:58,740 --> 00:34:58,980 when you care for a child who's been It's very easy. It's from A to B. 838 00:34:58,980 --> 00:35:01,420 It's very easy. It's from A to B. 839 00:35:01,420 --> 00:35:02,820 What I've learned over the years 840 00:35:02,820 --> 00:35:05,620 is sometimes it's two steps forward, three steps backwards, 841 00:35:05,620 --> 00:35:07,260 turn around, sit down, touch the ground, 842 00:35:07,260 --> 00:35:10,460 wish you had a drink yourself, and then get up and keep going. 843 00:35:10,460 --> 00:35:11,700 It can be very, very challenging... 844 00:35:11,700 --> 00:35:14,140 Stacy now trains other foster carers 845 00:35:14,140 --> 00:35:18,420 to help them understand what their kids may be going through. 846 00:35:18,420 --> 00:35:19,980 VIDEO: Inside, cells called... 847 00:35:19,980 --> 00:35:23,620 This is what's happening to these unborn infants 848 00:35:23,620 --> 00:35:27,060 as these parts of their brain are developing, 849 00:35:27,060 --> 00:35:27,300 as these parts of their brain so, one of the things... 850 00:35:27,300 --> 00:35:28,700 so, one of the things... 851 00:35:28,700 --> 00:35:28,940 One of the main frustrations so, one of the things... 852 00:35:28,940 --> 00:35:31,580 One of the main frustrations she hears from carers 853 00:35:31,580 --> 00:35:34,340 is the lack of support for these kids. 854 00:35:34,340 --> 00:35:37,180 Methamphetamine and amphetamine are both on the rise... 855 00:35:37,180 --> 00:35:40,180 Unlike foetal alcohol spectrum disorder, 856 00:35:40,180 --> 00:35:45,380 there's no diagnosis or specific funding for prenatal drug exposure. 857 00:35:45,380 --> 00:35:45,620 there's no diagnosis or specific Well, when I got my son at seven, 858 00:35:45,620 --> 00:35:47,380 Well, when I got my son at seven, 859 00:35:47,380 --> 00:35:49,860 he just didn't have the ability to cope at school. 860 00:35:49,860 --> 00:35:51,860 And, so, we're putting him into a situation 861 00:35:51,860 --> 00:35:55,300 that he just did not have the ability to cope in. 862 00:35:55,300 --> 00:35:57,900 It's scary, isn't it? Out of all of the kids in the school, 863 00:35:57,900 --> 00:35:59,460 surely these are the ones that should be... 864 00:35:59,460 --> 00:36:01,660 ..we don't have the funding, there's no funding for. 865 00:36:14,020 --> 00:36:16,820 In America, illicit drug use during pregnancy 866 00:36:16,820 --> 00:36:20,860 is considered child abuse in 25 states. 867 00:36:20,860 --> 00:36:25,620 Dozens of women have been prosecuted for neglect or manslaughter. 868 00:36:26,580 --> 00:36:27,940 We work with amazing people... 869 00:36:27,940 --> 00:36:28,180 Kate Alexander from Child Protection We work with amazing people... 870 00:36:28,180 --> 00:36:31,540 Kate Alexander from Child Protection in New South Wales 871 00:36:31,540 --> 00:36:31,780 Kate Alexander from Child Protection says it's a dangerous approach. 872 00:36:31,780 --> 00:36:33,820 says it's a dangerous approach. 873 00:36:33,820 --> 00:36:34,060 I really worry about stigmatisation and criminalisation, says it's a dangerous approach. 874 00:36:34,060 --> 00:36:36,940 I really worry about stigmatisation and criminalisation, 875 00:36:36,940 --> 00:36:40,300 and there's little evidence that it works to reduce drug use. 876 00:36:40,300 --> 00:36:41,660 And what we are on about 877 00:36:41,660 --> 00:36:41,860 And what we are on about in this urgent time for babies 878 00:36:41,860 --> 00:36:44,460 in this urgent time for babies 879 00:36:44,460 --> 00:36:46,260 is a reduction in drug use. 880 00:36:46,260 --> 00:36:46,500 To be clear, though, is a reduction in drug use. 881 00:36:46,500 --> 00:36:50,540 To be clear, though, is your department's priority 882 00:36:50,540 --> 00:36:53,180 with the human rights of the pregnant woman 883 00:36:53,180 --> 00:36:53,420 with the human rights or the human rights of the child? 884 00:36:53,420 --> 00:36:55,940 or the human rights of the child? 885 00:36:55,940 --> 00:36:59,260 Absolutely my priority's with the safety of the unborn child, 886 00:36:59,260 --> 00:37:03,860 and the person most important to that baby is its mother, 887 00:37:03,860 --> 00:37:08,660 and we need to do everything we can to support that woman to stop using. 888 00:37:08,660 --> 00:37:12,740 The criticism will be, though, that that's a soft touch. 889 00:37:12,740 --> 00:37:17,300 Uh... If... If you saw the way our prenatal case workers 890 00:37:17,300 --> 00:37:20,980 work in a supportive environment with Health at the table, 891 00:37:20,980 --> 00:37:23,660 you would never describe it as a soft touch. 892 00:37:23,660 --> 00:37:23,900 you would never describe it What it is is an ethical approach 893 00:37:23,900 --> 00:37:25,900 What it is is an ethical approach 894 00:37:25,900 --> 00:37:29,940 where mothers are given all the information they need, 895 00:37:29,940 --> 00:37:32,700 including the dangers to their children, 896 00:37:32,700 --> 00:37:36,140 and it's a harm-minimisation approach. 897 00:37:37,100 --> 00:37:41,420 One of the biggest barriers stopping pregnant women from asking for help 898 00:37:41,420 --> 00:37:44,780 is the fear their baby will be taken away. 899 00:37:44,780 --> 00:37:47,660 Is it conflicting at times in your job 900 00:37:47,660 --> 00:37:51,540 balancing that with the protection of the unborn child? 901 00:37:51,540 --> 00:37:56,260 The protection of children, the safety and wellbeing of children, 902 00:37:56,260 --> 00:37:56,500 The protection of children, the is always our first priority. 903 00:37:56,500 --> 00:37:59,100 is always our first priority. 904 00:37:59,100 --> 00:38:00,580 But what we've learned 905 00:38:00,580 --> 00:38:03,420 and what's been a really good development in our work 906 00:38:03,420 --> 00:38:04,940 in the last couple of decades 907 00:38:04,940 --> 00:38:08,540 is that the best way to make children safe 908 00:38:08,540 --> 00:38:11,620 is to work with the person most important in the world to them, 909 00:38:11,620 --> 00:38:14,980 and for unborn children that is the mother. 910 00:38:14,980 --> 00:38:19,860 And, so, compassion for the mother is being child-focused. 911 00:38:19,860 --> 00:38:24,100 But they also need clear and urgent advice about their drug-use 912 00:38:24,100 --> 00:38:24,340 But they also need clear and urgent and its impact on their babies. 913 00:38:24,340 --> 00:38:26,180 and its impact on their babies. 914 00:38:26,180 --> 00:38:26,420 And we want them to talk and and its impact on their babies. 915 00:38:26,420 --> 00:38:31,100 And we want them to talk and be open with us, not hide from us. 916 00:38:35,940 --> 00:38:38,260 So many of the mums that we're meeting 917 00:38:38,260 --> 00:38:43,700 are telling us that their own mothers also struggled with addiction. 918 00:38:43,700 --> 00:38:46,460 I'm on my way now to meet up with Terrianne, 919 00:38:46,460 --> 00:38:49,540 who's trying to break that cycle with her newborn. 920 00:38:49,540 --> 00:38:53,020 She's really close now to graduating from rehab 921 00:38:53,020 --> 00:38:56,500 and she's allowed out on weekends to set up her new home. 922 00:39:01,820 --> 00:39:04,060 Hello! TERRIANNE: Hello! 923 00:39:04,060 --> 00:39:05,140 Hey, Terrianne. How are you? 924 00:39:05,140 --> 00:39:05,380 I'm good. How are you? Hey, Terrianne. How are you? 925 00:39:05,380 --> 00:39:07,300 I'm good. How are you? I'm good! 926 00:39:07,300 --> 00:39:09,380 Come in. This is your place then? 927 00:39:09,380 --> 00:39:09,620 Come in. This is, yeah. 928 00:39:09,620 --> 00:39:11,140 This is, yeah. 929 00:39:11,140 --> 00:39:12,580 This is my humble home. 930 00:39:12,580 --> 00:39:14,220 Which one's Lockie's room? 931 00:39:14,220 --> 00:39:16,620 Lockie's room is down here. 932 00:39:18,140 --> 00:39:19,500 Oh, this is, like... 933 00:39:19,500 --> 00:39:21,220 ..doesn't even look like his room at the moment. 934 00:39:21,220 --> 00:39:23,820 You're still setting it up? Yeah. Yeah. I am. Yep. 935 00:39:23,820 --> 00:39:26,820 Yeah. Oh, this will be so cute, though. 936 00:39:26,820 --> 00:39:28,300 Yeah. (BABY CRIES) 937 00:39:28,300 --> 00:39:28,540 Yeah. Yep, so, that's... 938 00:39:28,540 --> 00:39:29,620 Yep, so, that's... 939 00:39:29,620 --> 00:39:33,900 Moving into her own place is a huge step forward for Terrianne, 940 00:39:33,900 --> 00:39:38,260 who was homeless for part of her pregnancy with Lockie. 941 00:39:38,260 --> 00:39:42,220 Just knowing I've got a home is...a godsend. 942 00:39:42,220 --> 00:39:42,460 Just knowing I've got a home Like, I'm blessed. I really am. 943 00:39:42,460 --> 00:39:44,220 Like, I'm blessed. I really am. 944 00:39:44,220 --> 00:39:48,060 This will be a completely new chapter for you. 945 00:39:48,060 --> 00:39:50,300 Mm. Most definitely. Yeah. 946 00:39:50,300 --> 00:39:52,820 I'm so proud of myself for how far I've come. 947 00:39:52,820 --> 00:39:54,580 I never, ever thought I would make it. 948 00:39:54,580 --> 00:39:57,500 Never, ever thought I would come out of addiction. 949 00:39:57,500 --> 00:40:00,220 Never, ever thought I would have this beautiful child in my arms. 950 00:40:00,220 --> 00:40:02,860 So, yeah, in my eyes I've come really far. 951 00:40:02,860 --> 00:40:03,100 So, yeah, Because you've come so far, 952 00:40:03,100 --> 00:40:04,740 Because you've come so far, 953 00:40:04,740 --> 00:40:04,980 do you get scared Because you've come so far, 954 00:40:04,980 --> 00:40:07,660 do you get scared of losing any of it? 955 00:40:07,660 --> 00:40:07,900 do you get scared No, like, I haven't had any urges, 956 00:40:07,900 --> 00:40:09,620 No, like, I haven't had any urges, 957 00:40:09,620 --> 00:40:12,340 I haven't had any triggers, I haven't had anything. 958 00:40:12,340 --> 00:40:12,580 I haven't had any triggers, I'm surprising myself, to be honest. 959 00:40:12,580 --> 00:40:14,620 I'm surprising myself, to be honest. 960 00:40:14,620 --> 00:40:14,860 But I've always I'm surprising myself, to be honest. 961 00:40:14,860 --> 00:40:16,700 But I've always gotta keep that in mind, 962 00:40:16,700 --> 00:40:18,700 that anything could happen at any time. 963 00:40:18,700 --> 00:40:24,380 Just be aware of my thoughts and any feelings that go through my body 964 00:40:24,380 --> 00:40:27,260 for a lapse or a relapse. 965 00:40:27,260 --> 00:40:29,900 But I personally, honestly, don't think I will. 966 00:40:29,900 --> 00:40:30,140 But I personally, honestly, I've got too much to lose. 967 00:40:30,140 --> 00:40:32,620 I've got too much to lose. 968 00:40:32,620 --> 00:40:35,700 I couldn't think of a day or a night or a minute or an hour 969 00:40:35,700 --> 00:40:36,940 without Lockie. 970 00:40:36,940 --> 00:40:38,700 You know what I mean? Like... Yeah. 971 00:40:38,700 --> 00:40:41,220 It's amazing to see you now. Mm. 972 00:40:41,220 --> 00:40:44,660 I didn't know the Terrianne back then, but... 973 00:40:44,660 --> 00:40:47,220 You wouldn't have wanted to, to be honest. 974 00:40:48,180 --> 00:40:51,660 I was always scared to know what the real me was like. 975 00:40:51,660 --> 00:40:54,580 But, I mean, I'm still in early recovery, 976 00:40:54,580 --> 00:40:56,300 but I like me now. 977 00:40:56,300 --> 00:40:58,260 Like, yeah, I love me. 978 00:40:58,260 --> 00:41:00,820 I've always hated myself. I love myself now. (LAUGHS) 979 00:41:00,820 --> 00:41:03,820 I honestly thought, yeah, it was too late for everything and anything, 980 00:41:03,820 --> 00:41:04,060 I honestly thought, yeah, it was too but it's never too late. 981 00:41:04,060 --> 00:41:06,540 but it's never too late. 982 00:41:06,540 --> 00:41:09,220 Don't wake up. Nigh-nigh time. (GIGGLES) 983 00:41:14,460 --> 00:41:15,740 Free. 984 00:41:15,740 --> 00:41:17,340 Let's go. 985 00:41:28,660 --> 00:41:31,340 ELVIRA EARTHSTAR: It really matters to look after mums in pregnancy. 986 00:41:31,340 --> 00:41:31,580 ELVIRA EARTHSTAR: It really matters Before a baby is born, 987 00:41:31,580 --> 00:41:33,540 Before a baby is born, 988 00:41:33,540 --> 00:41:36,820 the mum is this baby's entire life-support system, 989 00:41:36,820 --> 00:41:37,060 the mum is this baby's and the more we can support a mum 990 00:41:37,060 --> 00:41:40,020 and the more we can support a mum 991 00:41:40,020 --> 00:41:40,260 to reduce or perhaps even stop and the more we can support a mum 992 00:41:40,260 --> 00:41:43,180 to reduce or perhaps even stop her drug use, 993 00:41:43,180 --> 00:41:45,780 the better the outcomes are gonna be for this baby. 994 00:41:45,780 --> 00:41:48,020 It is an excellent form of investment 995 00:41:48,020 --> 00:41:50,380 in the health of future generations 996 00:41:50,380 --> 00:41:54,980 to support women before they are pregnant and during their pregnancy. 997 00:42:00,140 --> 00:42:02,780 I follow the rules! 998 00:42:02,780 --> 00:42:05,420 I'm a rule-follower. 999 00:42:05,420 --> 00:42:07,060 KID: No, you don't. You're a rule-breaker. 1000 00:42:07,060 --> 00:42:07,300 KID: No, you don't. It is easier to turn a blind eye 1001 00:42:07,300 --> 00:42:08,940 It is easier to turn a blind eye 1002 00:42:08,940 --> 00:42:12,380 and it's easy to pretend that it doesn't exist. 1003 00:42:13,460 --> 00:42:15,820 But these children, their lives matter. 1004 00:42:15,820 --> 00:42:17,580 You know, they didn't choose to be born 1005 00:42:17,580 --> 00:42:17,820 You know, into the contexts that they have. 1006 00:42:17,820 --> 00:42:19,460 into the contexts that they have. 1007 00:42:19,460 --> 00:42:19,700 So, if we pay attention into the contexts that they have. 1008 00:42:19,700 --> 00:42:22,780 So, if we pay attention and we give them what they need 1009 00:42:22,780 --> 00:42:25,380 and we support their carers and their parents, 1010 00:42:25,380 --> 00:42:30,820 then we're going to have healthy adults contributing to society. 1011 00:42:30,820 --> 00:42:34,060 If we don't, then we're gonna be paying for it as a society. 1012 00:42:34,060 --> 00:42:37,140 We're gonna have incarcerations, we're gonna have addictions. 1013 00:42:37,140 --> 00:42:37,380 We're gonna have incarcerations, It's not a hard fix. 1014 00:42:37,380 --> 00:42:39,820 It's not a hard fix. 1015 00:42:39,820 --> 00:42:42,980 It's investing early on for long-term outcome. 1016 00:42:45,420 --> 00:42:47,420 A week after meeting Davida, 1017 00:42:47,420 --> 00:42:51,420 she gave birth to a baby boy in the back of an ambulance. 1018 00:42:51,420 --> 00:42:54,420 He was in hospital for a couple of weeks, 1019 00:42:54,420 --> 00:42:57,300 but has since gone home with Davida. 1020 00:43:00,100 --> 00:43:03,260 Alysha has given birth to a baby girl. 1021 00:43:03,260 --> 00:43:08,180 She plans on staying in rehab with her and completing the program. 1022 00:43:09,900 --> 00:43:13,140 (LAUGHTER, CHATTER) 1023 00:43:13,140 --> 00:43:15,100 Thank youse for coming. 1024 00:43:15,100 --> 00:43:16,540 I've learned a lot in the 16 weeks, 1025 00:43:16,540 --> 00:43:20,020 and I'm just so happy and proud of myself for making it. 1026 00:43:20,020 --> 00:43:22,300 And know that you've always got us. 1027 00:43:22,300 --> 00:43:25,700 Terrianne recently graduated from Bridgehaven. 1028 00:43:25,700 --> 00:43:28,220 This is the beginning of the rest of your life. 1029 00:43:28,220 --> 00:43:31,260 She's now living in her new home with Lockie. 1030 00:43:31,260 --> 00:43:31,500 She's now living in her new home (APPLAUSE) 1031 00:43:31,500 --> 00:43:36,460 (APPLAUSE)