The University of Idaho Argonaut

Since its meth project was first introduced in 2005, Montana has seen a 70 percent decrease in workers testing positive for the drug and a 53 percent decrease in meth-related crime.
Idaho, on the other hand, is ranked 5th in the nation for methamphetamine use per capita. The state now spends $66 million annually housing inmates with meth problems and 75 percent of inmates with drug problems say they prefer meth.

On Jan. 7 the Idaho Meth Project was launched and includes disturbing, graphic images directed toward teens and parents.
The meth problem in Idaho, and even in as small of places as Moscow, is something that can no longer be ignored, especially after seeing the success of the campaign in Montana.
The problem is the over-saturation of this kind of PSA campaign. From anti-smoking to teen pregnancy we have all grown up being told what not to do during commercial breaks.

Young people are so used to the messages that it could be difficult to separate one campaign from the rest.
Fortunately these ads are hard to miss. The images of young people and what meth has done to their bodies and faces are haunting — like a horrible accident you can’t look away from.
The focus on looks — rotting teeth, body sores and sagging eyes — is perhaps the most striking element of the ads. The effects of meth on your health are severe — but the effect on your outward appearance can be more frightening, especially to young people.

The graphic nature of these ads and others like them might be the only way to reach that demographic. People who spend hours playing violent video games or movies filled with drug glorification are not going to be reached by breaking eggs with a frying pan or a cartoon cigarette.
The statistics show that meth is not just a problem in the cities, but also in rural areas like Moscow where meth is the most common drug.
This campaign could be the boost, and maybe the scare tactic, that Idaho, like Montana needs to kick its meth habit.

— RH