Meth Addiction

Methamphetamine (also referred to as meth, crystal, ice, glass, crystal) is a stimulant drug that is chemically similar in structure to amphetamines, such as Adderall. Meth is usually found in the form of a white, odorless, powder or as a clear/white/bluish crystal-like rock.

Even a small amount of meth can result in physical effects that mimic other powerful stimulant drugs, such as cocaine. Historically, meth was mostly homemade in clandestine labs in the U.S., but due to crackdowns on psuedoepinephrine, the main active ingredient in meth, now much of the meth on the street is manufactured and imported from Mexico.

Meth is particularly dangerous when used in conjunction with other drugs or alcohol.

Signs and Symptoms of Meth Use

Meth use significantly affects the user’s brain and body. These effects are often pervasive in several areas of his or her life. It is not uncommon for regular meth users to exhibit certain behavioral signs of addiction, such as the following:

  • Loss of interest in hobbies/activities once deemed important
  • Neglect of relationships
  • Isolation from others and change in social groups
  • Risky financial behavior, such as using savings to buy meth
  • Criminal behavior, such as stealing money or items in order to buy meth
  • Obsessive focus on a certain task, just as cleaning or organizing
  • Forgetting important dates or events
  • Aggressive or violent behavior
  • Distracted behavior in social situations
  • Risky and impulsive sexual behavior
  • Erratic sleep patterns and disturbances, such as insomnia
  • Hyperactivity and extremely high energy, talkativeness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Exhibiting a tic or repetitive behavior, such as pulling hair or picking at a particular spot on the skin

Symptoms of Meth Use

Meth use can lead to a myriad of physical and psychological effects as their entire body is negatively impacted by the substance.

The following are typical physical symptoms of meth addiction:

  • Sudden or extreme weight loss
  • Extreme sweating
  • Irregular breathing
  • Nosebleeds
  • Slow-healing sores
  • Dilated pupils
  • Burns, especially on lips or fingers
  • Track marks on arms
  • Rotting or broken teeth (also known as “meth mouth”)
  • Bad breath
  • Premature skin aging

The following are typical psychological symptoms of meth addiction:

  • Paranoia
  • Anxiety and agitation
  • Nervousness and fidgeting
  • Mood swings
  • Depression
  • Hallucinations
  • The belief there are insects crawling under the skin (formication)

Treatment for Meth Addiction

Our center is comprised of an experienced team of qualified medical and mental health professionals that will develop a customized plan to help you defeat meth addiction. Our program includes a variety of comprehensive, evidence-based approaches, such as behavioral therapy, counseling, and group support.

Recovery from meth addiction is possible if you have the right tools to identify and cope with triggers and maintain long-term sobriety. Our center can provide you with those tools and help you regain your life!

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