Methamphetamine, or meth, is a powerful stimulant that can severely affect the body. Short-term effects of meth use include increased alertness, insomnia, euphoria, increased physical activity, reduced appetite, and weight loss. Long-term effects of meth use include anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, aggressive behavior, and damage to the brain and organs. Methamphetamine is highly addictive and can be difficult to stop using.
If you’re a parent, friend, or partner, it’s important to be aware of certain signs that appear when casual use becomes chronic abuse. This is especially true regarding methamphetamine, which can be highly destructive to users and those around them. For that reason alone, it’s vital to know how to tell if someone is on meth and what to do when use becomes an issue. To learn more about Texas Recovery Center and our meth addiction treatment options, call us at 844.230.5931.
What Is Meth?
Methamphetamine is a highly addictive chemical substance with intense side effects. The drug was developed in the early 20th century as a nasal decongestant. The drug proved popular as its increased activity, decreased appetite, and inspired feelings of euphoria and confidence. Currently, there are no legal uses for meth, and it is generally used solely for recreational purposes. However, meth is not the kind of drug one can regularly use for extended periods. This is because of the drug’s physical and emotional side effects and symptoms. Studies have shown that chronic meth use can lead to changes in brain regions that control habitual and repetitive activities, resulting in impaired motor function and confusion.
How to Tell if Someone Is on Meth
Many signs can be attributed to meth use, but these signs will differ depending on a few things, such as the length of use, method of use, and consumption rate. As stated above, the signs and symptoms of meth use can worsen over time, but they can also vary depending on the method used when taking the drug. Meth is commonly sold as a pill, powder, or crystal and can be ingested by smoking, snorting, or ingesting. Here are some of the signs of someone using meth:
- Paranoia
- Decreased sleep
- Shaking/twitches
- Aggression and agitation
- High energy
- Sores
- Liver damage
- Lowered immunity
- Rotting teeth
- Acne
- Rapid speech
Another sign of meth use that one should be aware of is the paraphernalia associated with meth. These include burned spoons, glass pipes, syringes and needles, loose razor blades, and tools used for snorting, such as straws or rolled-up dollar bills.
How to Treat Meth Addiction
The first step for anyone recovering from meth addiction is to go through medical detox. Prolonged use increases tolerance which can significantly increase the side effects of physical dependence. These effects come in the form of the symptoms listed above and the symptoms of withdrawal. Withdrawing from meth can be so intense that doctors will often opt for medically-assisted detox followed by a form of therapy that best suits the patient’s needs.
Cognitive behavioral therapy can be an effective form of treatment for meth addiction. This therapy helps patients understand the thoughts and behaviors contributing to their addiction. It also helps them to develop coping mechanisms for dealing with triggers and cravings. In addition to cognitive behavioral therapy, there are many 12-step programs available to help those recovering from meth addiction. These programs provide a support system and accountability for those in early recovery. Meth addiction is a severe problem that requires professional treatment. If you or someone you know is struggling with meth addiction, please reach out for help. There are many resources available to assist you in getting the help you need.
Finding Help at Texas Recovery Center
Meth addiction can be life-threatening if not treated properly. That is why family and friends need to be aware of the symptoms of chronic meth use so that those suffering from addiction can get the help they need as soon as possible. At Texas Recovery Center, we offer a wide variety of addiction-based treatments, all sharing the goal of giving patients back control over their lives. For more information on how to tell if someone is on meth or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at 844.230.5931.
