Meth Addiction Treatment
Meth is a highly addictive stimulant that produces feelings of euphoria, increased alertness, and decreased appetite. It is commonly used as a party drug and has a reputation for being extremely dangerous. According to the National Institutes of Health, meth is a primary culprit behind the ever-rising overdose cases in the US.
Our meth rehab in San Diego offers outpatient treatment for methamphetamine addiction. Treatment can include psychotherapy and medication management if needed. Customized treatment plans can be developed to best fit individual needs and diagnoses.
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What Are Methamphetamines?
Methamphetamines, also known as meth or crystal meth, are a potent central nervous system stimulant with chemical properties similar to amphetamines. They work by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which can lead to feelings of euphoria and increased alertness that last for several hours.
Methamphetamines are often abused for their pleasurable effects but can also be used for medical purposes. For example, they may be prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or narcolepsy – hence, a Schedule II classification. However, methamphetamines are also highly addictive, and long-term abuse can lead to serious health problems such as anxiety, paranoia, and cardiovascular damage.
Meth comes in various forms, including powder, pill, and crystal. Crystal meth is the most potent form of the drug and produces the strongest effects.
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Research shows that without addiction treatment in Oceanside, any addiction is likely to get worse. While many people think they can simply abstain from drugs or alcohol, this does not represent comprehensive recovery. Recovery from substance abuse is more than simply abstaining.
Risks Of Using Crystal Meth
Because crystal meth is so potent, it carries a high risk for addiction and overdose. In fact, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), crystal meth is one of the most addictive drugs on the market. Yet, over 1.8 million people in the US, 12 years and older, abuse meth every year.
People who abuse crystal meth are at risk for several serious problems, including:
Health problems
Crystal meth speeds up the body's metabolism, leading to severe weight loss and malnutrition. It can also cause damage to the liver, kidneys, and lungs.
Mental health issues
Long-term crystal meth abuse can cause paranoia, anxiety, and hallucinations.
Cognitive problems
Long-term crystal meth abuse can lead to memory loss, psychosis, and schizophrenia.
Social problems
People who abuse crystal meth risk losing their job, family, and friends.
Chronic diseases
Those who inject meth risk contracting HIV, hepatitis C, and other blood-borne diseases.
Death
Crystal meth use can also lead to death. As mentioned earlier, crystal meth is one of the leading causes of overdose deaths in the US.
Methamphetamine is a toxic drug made with household cleaners and readily available chemicals, all of which are toxic. And since the production methods are unregulated, the storage of chemicals and disposal of resulting waste is also unregulated. This creates a public health hazard where the toxic waste can contaminate water supplies, soil, and air.
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Signs And Symptoms Of Crystal Meth Abuse
Crystal meth is a powerful and addictive stimulant that can severely affect users’ physical and mental health. The signs and symptoms of crystal meth abuse can vary depending on the person’s age, health, frequency of use, and other factors. If a person notices the signs of meth abuse, it could be a greater indication of the person being addicted to meth.
Physical Signs Of Crystal Meth Abuse
Several physical signs may be indicative of crystal meth abuse, including:
- Meth mouth (rotted teeth)
- A thinning, frail body
- Intense scratching
- Facial sores or acne
- A droopy quality to the facial skin
- Liver damage
- Increased libido
- Convulsions
- Stroke
- Lowered immunity
- An increase in body temperature
- Death
Psychological Signs Of Crystal Meth Abuse
Some of the most common psychological signs of crystal meth abuse include:
- Paranoia
- Delusions
- Hallucinations
- Psychosis
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Agitation
- Depression
Behavioral Signs Of Crystal Meth Abuse
Some behavioral signs may be indicative of crystal meth abuse. These include:
- Secretive behavior
- Isolation
- Sudden change in friends
- Sudden change in interests
- Drop in grades or work performance
- Financial problems
- Neglect of personal appearance
Symptoms Of A Meth Comedown
Methamphetamine abuse alters dopamine levels in the brain, causing an intense sense of pleasure and satisfaction. When a person stops taking methamphetamine, they experience withdrawal symptoms as their brain chemistry attempts to recalibrate. This process is called a “meth comedown.”
When meth use stops, the brain cannot produce dopamine on its own, leading to fatigue, depression, and anxiety. In some cases, people may also experience hallucinations and paranoia. These are just some of the side effects associated with meth abuse.
The intensity and duration of withdrawal symptoms vary from person to person, but most people begin to feel better after a week or two. However, some people may struggle with meth-induced delusions for months or even years. Here’s a quick look at the phases of meth come down
12-24 Hours Post Use
During this phase, one is likely to feel tired, anxious, irritated, or agitated and have trouble concentrating or sleeping.
Day Two -Three
This is when the comedown is at its peak and is characterized by symptoms like lack of motivation, little to no appetite, depression, anxiety, and a strong desire to use meth. One may also feel anxious, depressed, and tired in the days after using meth.
One Week and Beyond
These are often called the “crash” days as they are typified by extreme feelings of fatigue, depression, and anxiety. One may experience a lack of motivation, happiness, calm, hope, etc. They may also have a strong desire to use meth to feel better. While the crash phase typically lasts around a week, the long-term effects of meth use can last much longer. Some people may never fully recover from the damage that methamphetamine has done to their brains and body. That’s why it’s important to seek timely help.
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Treatment For Meth Abuse
Treatment programs can effectively treat meth addiction and other substance use disorders. Meth users who feel they cannot stop using the drug on their own should seek support for their substance use.
Pacific Palms Recovery offers various treatment options for those struggling with meth abuse. We offer a variety of therapies, including individual and group counseling, to help our clients heal from the damage that meth has done to their lives. Our program is designed to help people begin the process of recovery. We also offer a relapse prevention program to help our clients stay on the path of recovery.
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Our Meth Rehab In San Diego Can Help
Methamphetamine is a commonly abused stimulant that can be highly addictive. Meth can cause adverse physical and mental effects while using and after immediate stopping use.
If you or someone you love is struggling with meth abuse, reach out to our meth rehab in San Diego today. Our experienced professionals are here to support you through every step of the recovery process. Our team can provide you with more information about our treatment options and how we can help you or your loved one start the journey to recovery.