Meth Addiction
Meth addiction has sharply increased since the 1990's. Meth has toxic effects on the body and brain. For example, the drug causes a large surge in dopamine, which produces a euphoric high. Changes in dopamine and other neurotransmitters change various parts of the brain, creating addiction.
It is important that meth addiction treatment take place in a qualified Florida drug rehab. Detox and stabilization help regulate brain chemistry, while other parts of meth rehab help clients address underlying issues and co-occurring disorders.
What is Meth?
Methamphetamine is a very addictive stimulant drug with chemical properties similar to amphetamine. Meth is a white, odorless, bitter-tasting crystalline powder that can be smoked, snorted, taken orally or dissolved in liquid (water or alcohol) and injected. Small meth batches are made in illegal laboratories, with relatively inexpensive over-the-counter substances such as pseudoephedrine, a common ingredient found in cold medicines. Likewise, illegal labs in Mexico manufacture large amounts of the drug which are then distributed in the United States.
The smoked form of meth came into widespread use in the 1980's and is most often referred to as crystal meth. Crystal meth is bluish-white or clear and resembles glass fragments. The high purity crystals are smoked in a glass pipe, like crack cocaine. The smoke is odorless, leaving a residue that can be re-smoked, and produces effects that may last for 8-12 hours.
Meth is One of the Most Addictive Substances Abused
Meth addiction changes a person’s mood in various ways depending on how it's taken. Users initially report feeling confident and powerful, with limitless energy, increased productivity, enhanced sexual performance and decreased appetite. Those who smoke or inject meth describe a short-lived, intense sensation or rush. Moreover, meth addiction creates and intense fervor so users can sustain the high. However, this is followed by "coming down", and later, crashing.
Once a tolerance develops, meth addicts need increasing amounts to obtain the same high. Serious physical changes in the brain are what make quitting meth so difficult.
Dangers of Meth Addiction
Even in small doses, methamphetamine can intensify wakefulness and physical activity and decrease appetite. High doses can raise body temperatures to unsafe and often lethal levels and cause seizures. Long-term meth abuse is associated with cravings, dangerous behavior, brain dysfunction, and loss of self-control. Chronic meth users can experience any of the following side effects or symptoms:
Behavioral Side Effects
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Depression
- Disorientation
- Violent behavior
- Psychosis
- Restlessness
- Paranoia, which can result in homicidal or suicidal thoughts
- Progressive social and occupational deterioration
Physical Side Effects Include:
- Insomnia
- Convulsions
- Tremors
- Liver, kidney and lung damage
- Nasal tissue erosion
- Respiratory or breathing problems
- Sweating
- Tooth decay
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Dramatic weight loss
- Damage to the brain
- Cardiovascular problems
Meth Addiction Treatment in Pompano Beach, Florida
Depressive symptoms occur regularly in methamphetamine users who have recently stopped using the drug. Proper medical oversight is required to help manage these symptoms. If a person binged for days or weeks, severe withdrawal symptoms can last up to 10 days. Due to meth-induced neurotoxicity in the brain, some symptoms, such as psychosis, can last for months or years after meth use has stopped. It is critical to get the individual into Florida Meth addiction treatment, so they can be safely detoxified and participate in other treatment modalities such as:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy
- One-One-One Therapy
- Group Therapy
- Adventure Therapy
- Brain Mapping
- Equine Therapy
