Methamphetamine addiction, commonly referred to as meth addiction, like any form of substance abuse, brings chaos and discord to everyday life. Methamphetamine, in particular, is a highly addictive substance that has major effects on the central nervous system, which is controlled by the brain. As a result, this addiction has extremely negative long-term effects.
Thankfully, there is help available to anyone ready to commit to recovery. The decision to seek treatment is brave and, often, difficult, but it is a decision that can save the lives of individuals suffering from meth addiction. Substance abuse does not need to be a lifelong issue. Quit Alcohol provides resources for family and friends looking to support an individual struggling with an addiction, as well as reliable information and a supportive community to learn more about substance abuse. Read on for more information surrounding meth use and how treatment can help.
What is Methamphetamine?
Methamphetamine, commonly known as meth, is a highly potent and addictive stimulant that affects the mind and body. In rare cases, methamphetamine can be prescribed to treat certain conditions, such as ADHD. However, it is commonly sold illegally in crystal or powder form, and it can be smoked, snorted, injected, or orally ingested. Crystal meth is a more potent form of the drug that resembles rocks or glass, but the effects of meth and crystal meth are relatively the same.
In the short term, meth has a euphoric effect on the brain, making it easy for meth abuse to form. Other side effects of meth use include intense excitement, low appetite, hyperactivity, and euphoria. In the longer term, negative side effects are irregular heartbeat, increased blood pressure, and serious dental problems. Users of meth experience a pleasurable feeling from the high caused by the drug, but once the high fades, the brain comes to crave the experience of the drug repeatedly.
Warning Signs of a Meth Addiction
Chronic methamphetamine users experience various visible, negative side effects from long-term use. One of the first warning signs of meth addiction is a complete disinterest in relationships, hobbies, and everyday life. Individuals suffering from addiction will be hyper-focused on meth use and constantly look forward to the next time they can use the substance.
Over time, methamphetamine alters the body and brain, and individuals have a harder time hiding their addiction from others. Some of the most noticeable symptoms of meth addiction include dilated pupils, paranoia, hyperactivity, skin sores, sudden weight loss, and agitation. Rotting teeth is one of the more visible signs of meth abuse, often referred to as “meth mouth.” Meth mouth is characterized by severe tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease, which cause teeth to break or fall out. Meth addiction has outward side effects that can be easily noticeable by loved ones. If you or a loved one is suffering from any of the above side effects, it may be time to seek out professional addiction treatment.
Methamphetamine Addiction Treatment
Methamphetamine abuse has a massively negative effect on the central nervous system, so it is crucial to have medical professionals oversee rehabilitation from this addiction. It is worth noting that for some individuals to receive the help they need, an intervention held by compassionate family and friends may be necessary.
The first step in meth addiction recovery is typically medical detox, during which those struggling with addiction completely stop using the substance. During this time, patients are likely to experience withdrawal symptoms, which can range from uncomfortable to painful. After the detox portion of rehabilitation, individuals will likely move on to a therapy program.
The programs will vary depending on the needs of each patient. Mental health treatment is a crucial part of recovery, as mental illness often exists in conjunction with methamphetamine use disorder. Beyond rehab and therapy, there are several support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous, that are designed to help promote long-term recovery.
Addiction Treatment Centers for Meth Addiction
There are two main forms of addiction treatment following detox that benefit those struggling with meth addiction; inpatient treatment and outpatient treatment. Our team at Quit Alcohol can help you determine which level of treatment is the best fit for your needs.
Inpatient Treatment Programs for Meth Addiction
For more severe addictions, inpatient treatment is recommended following medical detox. Inpatient treatment programs provide 24/7 supervision by trained medical staff and valuable resources such as therapy sessions and support groups to help the individual battling meth addiction get through one of the most difficult parts of “getting clean.”
During inpatient treatment, individuals are required to sleep at the treatment facility to ensure their safety and sobriety as they work through intense drug cravings and withdrawal symptoms. This is all done in a specific treatment facility where treatment can last between 1 to 6 months. Individuals also participate in mental health services at the treatment facility to uncover the root cause of their addiction.
Outpatient Treatment Programs
Outpatient programs are a great next step after going through the process of inpatient treatment. Outpatient treatment programs can be done by commuting to the treatment center a few times a week to receive treatment, often in the form of therapies similar to inpatient treatment.
Unlike inpatient programs, outpatient programs allow for more flexible scheduling so the individual receiving treatment can still tend to their work or school obligations throughout treatment. Individuals are not required to sleep at the facility for this level of care. It is also important to note that there are varying levels of care when it comes to outpatient treatment. The rehab advisors are Quit Alcohol are available 24/7 to help you find a program that aligns with your specific needs goals.
Finding the Right Treatment Program With Quit Alcohol
With the right treatment plan and commitment from those suffering, meth addiction can be a thing of the past. The road to recovery is out there, and we can help you find the right treatment plan.
Our free helpline connects you or your loved one with an addiction specialist who listens to understand the recovery needs and helps work out the right recovery plan. Several treatment centers focus on meth addiction, and they are ready to help those suffering from addiction find peace and freedom from methamphetamine. For more information about meth addiction or to be connected to the right addiction treatment center near you, reach out to us online or call (888) 673-9346. The start of a sober life is just a click or call away.
