abc.net.au/news/steroids-rise-in-young-men-as-fitpack-needle-exchange-doubles/102681198As a young man trying to add muscle mass and improve his physique, Shayne Smith found himself experimenting with steroids, a path he is now warning others to avoid taking.It has been linked to growing demand for needle and syringe equipmentThe former rugby player was told that was how to succeed in bodybuilding."You're just relying on the next gym bro to get your advice.
Social media has also placed an emphasis on body image, pushing people to focus more on their physical appearance. "It's pretty sad to be really honest ... guys, generally 18-year-old males are coming in and they basically tell you that they're taking steroids already, or they want to take steroids," Mr Smith said.Mr Smith said he would not advise someone that was not competing in bodybuilding to ever go down that path and for those that do, have a clear training and nutrition plan.
Several West Australian non-for-profit groups have told the ABC that they had anecdotally seen an increase in the equipment given out to steroid users.