Meth addiction is very serious because methamphetamine is a highly addictive stimulant drug. Meth works by affecting the central nervous system and produces a euphoric effect and increases energy. Meth often comes in a white powder or a semi-transparent crystallized form known as crystal meth. 1
Meth is part of the stimulant drug class. Stimulant drugs affect the body’s system to increase energy and alertness. Stimulant drugs like meth are highly addictive when abused.
Meth is a Schedule II controlled substance which means it is highly addictive and can lead to both a psychological and physical dependence forming on the drug. 2
Statistics about meth use show just how addictive and harmful meth can be in someone’s life. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse: 3
Anxiety is a common side effect of meth abuse. When someone takes meth, it creates a euphoric effect combined with increased energy and alertness. It can cause anxiety to occur, especially when the substance is abused over a long period.
Anxiety can also be a sign of meth withdrawal. When someone suddenly stops taking meth, they may experience several withdrawal symptoms including anxiety due to the physical and psychological dependence that forms on the drug over time.
Meth is a highly addictive drug that can be very habit-forming when abused. Meth causes a physical and psychological dependence to form on the drug meaning that over time you will feel like you cannot function normally without taking it. You can also develop a tolerance to meth that requires increasingly higher doses to be taken to get the same effect. Frequently taking high doses of meth will lead to addiction.
Meth abuse can trigger psychosis which can cause someone to act irrationally and have distorted thoughts. It can put someone in a delusional state where they could potentially cause harm to themselves or others. Common signs of meth psychosis are: 4
Since meth is usually produced, bought, and sold illegally, drug dealers may try to sell fake meth to increase their profits. These are substances that may look similar and have similar effects to meth, but they can be very dangerous. Bath salts are a common form of fake meth since they have a similar appearance and still produces stimulant effects when taken. However, bath salts are very dangerous and can have unpredictable effects like hallucinations, disassociations, and violent or erratic behavior.
Common signs and symptoms of meth addiction include: 5
One of the dangers of meth use is its potential for overdose. Since you can build a tolerance to meth, it will cause someone with an addiction to use increasingly higher doses over time. This use can lead to someone overdosing which can be fatal. If someone overdoses, it is vital that they get immediate medical attention. Common signs of a meth overdose are: 6
If someone is experiencing any of these signs and you think they may have overdosed, contact medical attention as soon as possible. Calling 911 is usually the best option. When medical professionals arrive, tell them a meth overdose may have occurred so they can provide the right treatment for the patient.
When someone suddenly stops taking meth or reduces the amount they take, they will experience withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms can range from uncomfortable to potentially life-threatening depending on the individual and their level of addiction. The severity of withdrawal symptoms is why it is so critical that proper treatment is provided during the detox process. Common meth withdrawal symptoms are: 7
The first step of the treatment process is detox. Withdrawal symptoms will be experienced during this time. Receiving proper treatment and support is vital during this time to get the best results and keep the individual safe.
Inpatient treatment involves staying at a treatment center for a duration of time. This treatment will provide you with around–the–clock medical support, a structured environment that is away from temptation, and methods to make the process go as smooth as possible.
Outpatient treatment can be used at times when someone’s addiction is less severe. Outpatient treatment involves going to a treatment center at designated times to work on recovery. It can be a good option for those who have work or family commitments that they do not want to neglect while receiving treatment.
Therapy is an important part of the treatment process. Therapy can help an individual work on healthy ways to cope with the stresses of life, work on any underlying issues that may be causing addiction to occur, and will help them create a plan for long-term sobriety.
When someone struggles with addiction, they may also struggle with other underlying problems such as mental health issues or trauma. If someone has a dual diagnosis, they must receive treatment for both conditions at the same time to see the best results. Treatment centers can work with a patient to create a plan that is right for them to meet their needs and provide them with the best possible outcome from their recovery program.
We’re committed to fostering unbroken recovery. We provide treatment for addiction and dual diagnosis that is both life-long and life-changing. At Stages of Recovery, our continuum of care helps individuals struggling with addiction become the people they were meant to be.
If you’re looking for a safe recovery program for yourself or someone you know, there is hope. Call us today.
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