What Is Meth Addiction?
When a person begins using methamphetamine, they often become addicted because of the strong and potent ingredients it contains. The person using the drug will almost instantaneously feel a “high” or “euphoric” feeling that is hard to explain, but they want more and more of the drug to continue the feeling. The chemicals that meth contains gives our brain “feel good” feelings that cause meth to be very addictive.
People who are addicted to meth will show a variety of signs and symptoms that include:
- Paranoia
- Dilated pupils
- Hyperactivity
- Twitching, facial movements or other jerky movements
- Skin sores
- Rapid eye movement
- Agitation
- Decreased appetite
- Irregular sleeping patterns
- Mood swings
- Dental problems
- Burns on lips or fingers
- Significant weight loss
What Is Methamphetamine?
Methamphetamine or also known as “crystal meth” is a highly potent, addictive substance that can be used from easy to find ingredients. It effects our central nervous system and there is currently limited legal use for it, rarely being prescribed to treat ADHD and obesity.
Meth comes in the form of ‘crystal’ chunks that can be clear or blue shiny rocks. Other nicknames are “ice” or “glass”. It can be smoked from a pipe, swallowed, snorted or injected into veins. Almost immediately after using the drug a person feels a sudden rush or euphoric feeling which is why people often become addicted shortly after using it. It is dangerous and can damage your body and cause severe psychological problems.
Meth is a man-made substance that has been around for a long time and that was previously used during WWII to treat soldiers and keep them awake. It has also been used to treat depression and has been taken for weight loss. It is only available by prescription and is rarely used today.
Side Effects of Meth Addiction
Chronic abusers have side effects that often include:
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Mood disorders
- Confusion
- Violent behavior
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
Along with some side effects there are also long-term effects that may include:
- Addiction
- Changes in brain function
- Increased distractibility
- Memory loss
- Mood disturbances
- Thinking and motor impairment
- Aggressive or violent behavior
Risk Factors
There are many risk factors that may contribute to the onset of drug abuse. It can be anything from family genetics to environmental factors. Some of these risk factors include:
- Severe family problems including divorce or dysfunctional relationships
- High frequency use of drugs
- Early onset of drug use
- Severe childhood behavior problems including aggression or acting out
- PTSD or traumatic experiences that could include physical or sexual abuse
- Social isolation or interpersonal difficulties
- Family history of psychopathy
- Parental or sibling drug use
- Difficulty with appropriate coping strategies
Detox from Meth
Detoxing from a drug is when you stop using the substance after previously using it frequently. Your body goes through a “withdrawal” period that can often be very uncomfortable. Withdrawal occurs when regular use suddenly stops, and the person starts to experience a range of symptoms depending on the severity of use.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse people who are going through withdrawal from meth experience symptoms that alter their emotions. People experience a sudden “crash” after they stop using the substance and it can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks for people who used the drug frequently.
Withdrawal symptoms vary from person to person depending on what type of drug and how often they used. The severity to which they withdrawal also depends on how much and the method of use of the drug. People who inject meth into their body will typically experience a longer period of withdrawal and it will be more intense.
The most common withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Increased appetite
- Agitation
- Insomnia
- Loss of motivation
- Excessive sweating
- Suicidal thoughts
- Stomachache
- Tremors
- Paranoia
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Fever
- Dehydration
- Red, itchy eyes
Meth Treatment
Meth is a powerful, addictive drug and each time we use it can cause serious damage to key receptors in our brains. Meth treatment provides the necessary components for a successful outcome during the detox period and can provide a client with licensed psychiatrists who offer the proper care necessary. The staff provide support for the person’s mental health along with helping them establish the right coping strategies necessary to handle the detox period.
The goal of detox in Los Angeles is to allow clients to stop using meth in a comfortable, successful environment that addresses both their physical and mental health.
Treatment Options
Once a person begins using Meth they are almost immediately hooked and addicted, because of its’ strong habit-forming ingredients. Treatment is available and can be helpful in allowing a person to recover in a safe space {insert blog link to “Meth Treatment in Los Angeles”}.
Detoxification and cleansing the drug from our body is the first step in the treatment process that allows a person’s system to begin to function without the drug. This treatment can include rehabilitation along with behavior management to learn the correct coping strategies to function properly during times of stress without using the drug.
Each person’s drug severity is different and either in-patient or out-patient recovery may be necessary. A doctor may determine that an in-patient program is necessary to handle a person’s situation and avoid any possible significant danger that may occur.
If a person is experiencing any co-occurring disorders, then this needs to be considered during the treatment process so that the best care is provided. If this is the case, then the detoxification process may take place in a hospital or specialty treatment facility in order to provide the safest outcome for the person. The staff will be able to monitor the client’s progress through withdrawal and detoxification.
Meth Treatment in Los Angeles
Sometimes you might feel like reaching out for help, while other times, you might want to hole up and use. Going back and forth between the two only perpetuates continued meth use. The longer you use, the quicker you get to the end of your life.
Meth treatment in Los Angeles can help. We know how overwhelming it feels to have a meth addiction and to feel like there is no way out or no answer to the problem. But there is treatment available that can get you off meth and get you moving towards a happier, healthier future.
Don’t waste any more time. Call Breathe Life Healing Center today.
