The physical signs of meth use are generally very easy to identify as compared with those of other substance use. Meth use can also intensify or bring on a mental health condition. When a co-occurring disorder like this exists, they need to be treated together through a mental health and addiction treatment program. Our team of experts has designed outpatient and inpatient programs to meet all of our client’s needs, no matter the substance or mental health condition. Getting help at a meth rehab, like Solution Based Treatment, will give you or a loved one the tools and resources needed for lifelong recovery.
What Is Meth?
Methamphetamine, or meth, is a very addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Street names include crank, ice, Tina, speed, chalk, tweak, wash, and uppers. In its purest form, meth is a white powder that tastes bitter. Crystal meth is a concentrated and crystallized type of meth known as a “club drug” that looks like glass fragments or bluish-white shiny rocks. In powder form, the most common ways to use meth are to smoke or snort it. It can also be dissolved and made into a liquid that is injected or taken in pill form.
Meth use brings with it a host of serious side effects and health conditions. In fact, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) considers meth a Schedule II drug. These drugs have a higher potential for abuse, and they can lead to an unhealthy dependence with severe consequences. Meth use is even more dangerous if it’s used alongside drugs like ecstasy, opioids, cocaine, Xanax, marijuana, or alcohol.
Signs of Meth Use
Here are some key signs that can identify meth use:
Changes in Appearance
Noticeable weight loss or weight gain can be a red flag for drug use. Meth can be so all-consuming that those addicted literally forget to eat. If you are seeing someone you love disappearing before your eyes, it’s time to intervene because they are at risk of a serious health condition because of their drug use.
Cravings
Those addicted to drugs – especially meth – crave the drug nonstop. At work, they are just waiting until they can leave to get a fix. They are constantly distracted by their desire to use. The cravings are psychological, but it’s also their body creating physical cravings. The metabolized drugs leave metabolites in the body’s fat cells that are released – common when under stress – to remind them what their body is missing. The cravings are hard to control, and in some cases, are uncontrollable.
Tolerance
As drug use carries on over a long period of time, it takes more of the drug to create the high that people crave. The more someone uses, the higher their tolerance for that drug becomes. So, their drug use gets out of control to achieve the same effect. Meth use actually affects a user’s brain chemistry and slowly takes control of the person’s entire being.
Getting Sick More Easily and More Often
A compromised immune system is common among heavy drug users. The drugs attack every part of the body, and the result is that they are more prone to common colds and other ailments that their immune system would normally fight off. Flu-like symptoms are common, and they may become unable to fight off a virus or infection.
Neurological changes
Drugs – especially meth – play tricks on your brain. These changes can be lifelong, affecting memory, focus, and mental clarity. If you notice these signs of compromised mental capacity from suspected drug use and addiction, it’s time to seek professional help.
Contact SBT and Learn About Treatment for Meth Use
The lasting effects of meth use are serious. Physical damage to your body and your brain can be beyond repair. If you or a loved one are at risk and need help with a substance use disorder, you should seek treatment immediately. At Solution Based Treatment, our treatment programs include:
- Medical detox
- Partial hospitalization programs (PHP)
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOP)
Our straightforward approach to the psychological aspects of addiction and substance abuse offers a clear path to sobriety. Reach out to us at SBT by phone at 833.999.1941 to discuss our treatment options for yourself or a loved one.