“The worst is the crossing of drugs which is rampant here and poses a risk of death”: meeting with Thierry Bergugnat, addiction specialist in Toulon

2023-11-17 07:15:00

Thierry Bergugnat is a drug addiction specialist. He talks about it without taboo and with words that “talk” immediately to the teenagers and young adults he meets.

Facilitator and trainer in the prevention department of the Toulon branch of the Addictions France association (a network which also includes doctors, psychologists, etc.), he works with minors as well as soldiers or people in active life.

How can we approach these complex issues linked to drug addiction in Toulon?

It’s always a sensitive subject so I try to be an active listener. I adapt to the audience I have in front of me. These could be teenagers, soldiers on mission here or minors in the care of the justice system. The main thing is to speak the truth and not hide anything.

In what context do these prevention missions take place?

Within the framework of agreements signed between the association and National Defense, for example, when it comes to interventions within the Ollioules train regiment, the National Navy or in Canjuers. Each time, I remember what the law says and I listen a lot. Without judging but providing local advice. An addiction doctor or psychologist can also intervene…

Today, what drug is most prevalent in our region?

Definitely cocaine. Its price has fallen and quantities on the market are increasing. Cocaine is taking over many products currently. Let us also point out the presence of crack on our territory and a new substance: the zombie drug.

It is a mixture of heroin or cocaine with fentanyl and PCP (phencyclidine). This cocktail is very dangerous and wreaks havoc. This is what I repeat every time.

Are there other narcotics in the Toulon metropolis?

Yes. Here, as elsewhere, opioids wreak havoc. But I think the worst is the cross-drug use that is rampant here and poses a risk of death. We talked about it with chemsex in the Palmade affair. The offer is such today that it is very difficult to fight against these multi-markets which are developing.

Are minors also exposed?

Unfortunately, yes. We are currently witnessing a crazy growth in the trafficking of Puff cigarettes. This affects pre-teens and teenagers aged 11 to 16! This is terrible for children because the nicotine levels are high. For all substances, our region is the second most affected in France after the Ile de France.

For people suffering from addiction(s), what do you recommend?

Addiction is a disease. As such, it must be treated. In the national network to which we belong, it is always possible for a person to introduce themselves directly. You just need to have a vital card. And to be ready to be helped.