Methamphetamine Addiction Treatment Center

Addiction to methamphetamine is one of the most prevalent types of drug addiction today. At present, there are over 1.2 million people who are addicted to meth across the globe. On average, more than 100,000 emergency room visits can be attributed to the effects of the potent drug every year. Moreover, it seems like the popularity of meth has grown exponentially, especially for young people. According to recent studies, 1% of teenagers between 14-18 years old have tried meth at least once.

Methamphetamine addiction is a serious disease that deserves not only attention but focused meth addiction treatment.

What is Methamphetamine?

Methamphetamine, otherwise known as crystal meth, meth, crack, speed, or chalk, is a white, odorless powder or crystal made from the amphetamine medically used in bronchial inhalers and nasal decongestants. In some cases, methamphetamine is used to treat ADHD and obesity in adults and children. Moreover, it is prescribed for narcoleptics and people who are suffering from hypersomnia.

Recreational Use

Recreational use of crystal meth gained popularity in the 1980s. At the time, a smokable form of meth was popularized. Similar to its powdered form, the smoke is odorless. The intense high and quick effect increased the popularity and danger presented by the drug, increasing instances of meth addiction across the USA. Methamphetamine addiction treatment is critical for those struggling with this powerful drug.

What are the Effects of Methamphetamine?

Methamphetamine is a powerful stimulant that even in small doses can facilitate an increase in wakefulness. It is highly addictive, since users experience a general sense of wellbeing after ingesting the drug. Users often experience a “rush” upon smoking or injecting meth, which lasts anywhere from five to thirty minutes. This rush often results in a heightened and delusional sense of intelligence and importance. This intense experience, along with the physical symptoms of addiction, make meth a very addictive drug which requires drug addiction treatment centers’ assistance in giving it up.

Meth also decreases appetite and increases productivity. Some users abuse meth in order to suppress their appetites and prolong their sexual performance.

“Strength doesn’t come from what you can do. It comes from overcoming the things you once thought you couldn’t.” – Unknown

What Symptoms Are There?

The long-term effects of meth abuse are staggering. As their tolerance increases with repeated use, addicts tend to increase the amount and frequency of their meth intake in order to achieve its desired effect. Side effects of long-term meth use include:

• High blood pressure
• Heightened susceptibility to heart attacks
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Stroke and brain damage
• Respiratory problems
• Malnutrition
• Severe dental problems otherwise known as “meth mouth”
• Psychosis and delusions
• Organ damage
• Memory loss
• Violent or aggressive behavior
• Skin sores and abscesses from excessive picking and meth injection

Available Treatment for Methamphetamine Addicts

Individuals dealing with meth abuse have a number of options when it comes to meth addiction treatment. Often, meth addicts who want to be weaned off of their addiction are advised to undergo inpatient or residential programs. These programs can take up to three months. The duration of your treatment depends on several factors including:

• Level of meth addiction
• Severity of physical and mental manifestations of meth addiction
• Financial capability with regards to the treatment program

All types of therapies have varying efficacy and results for each patient. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for methamphetamine addiction. It is important to find the best and most effective therapy.

The effects and results of dealing with methamphetamine addiction vary from person to person. However, most meth treatment programs involve the following steps and processes:

• Detoxification or “detox”
• Physical and mental evaluation
• Therapy and counseling
• Aftercare

Medications that can help deal with withdrawal symptoms are sometimes prescribed for recovering addicts. However, at present, the Food and Drug Administration has yet to approve one drug that can treat methamphetamine addiction.

“The worst thing is watching someone drown and not being able to convince them that they can save themselves by just standing up.” –Unknown

Learn more about our therapeutic services and the benefits of our admissions process. Discover how our treatment programs can support your recovery journey and explore our alumni support for long-term sobriety.