Signs of Methamphetamine Addiction
Meth is chemically similar to amphetamines and legal prescription stimulants
like Adderall or Dexedrine, but it’s effect on brain chemistry is
far more powerful.
By flooding dopamine into reward areas of the brain, users are reinforced
to continue taking the drug, often chasing a high in a cycle of binging
and crashing many users call a “run.” Over time, the power
of a meth addiction can become an unsustainable lifestyle, having physical,
emotional, and financial consequences for both users and their families.
Signs of methamphetamine abuse include:
- Unhealthy weight loss and dental problems
- Sores and other skin conditions, intense scratching
- Hyperactivity, facial tics, rapid eye movements, or “tweaking”
- Irregular sleeping patterns or insomnia
- Irritability, aggression, and other behavioral changes
- Paranoia and hallucinations
- Drug-seeking behaviors
Long Term Effects of Meth Addiction
Long-term meth use has many health impacts. This includes risks associated
with toxic chemicals used to illicitly produce methamphetamine, as well
as risks of contracting infectious diseases such as hepatitis and HIV
due to intravenous (IV) drug use or risky behaviors. Meth can also result
in long-term problems with critical thinking, comprehension, learning,
and memory.
Other long-term effects of meth use include:
- Severe oral health and dental problems
- Changes in brain structure and function
- Lowered immunity / ability to fight disease
- Stroke, kidney failure, and liver damage
- Heart disease and respiratory issues
- Psychosis, memory loss, and emotional changes
Meth stays presents in the brain longer than other stimulants, and can
rewire how the brain produces dopamine, resulting in mood changes and
dependence. Prolonged use is also associated with reduced coordination,
impaired memory, changes to how a person experiences pleasure without
the drug, and damage to blood vessels and the body’s cardiovascular system.
Given the health consequences of long-term meth use, it’s important
for users and families to understand the value of quitting. And though
it may be difficult, recovery is possible. Especially with the support
of professional help and treatment at Grace Land Recovery.
Methamphetamine Addiction Treatment
Grace Land Recovery offers a robust set of programs for meth addiction
treatment that are personalized to the specific needs and circumstances
of each patient. This includes varying levels of care based on the intensity
of addiction, as well as medical detox and therapeutic medications to
manage withdrawal.
Our
drug addiction treatment programs include:
Our rehab center also offers many forms of evidence-based therapies to
help patients to overcome addiction and establish the foundational tools
for long-term, sustainable recovery. Our therapies include:
These therapies provide invaluable systems of support to patients in both
the early and later stages of their recovery journeys, and can be used
to address the traumas, anxieties, and mental health issues that so often
underly addiction and a person’s desire to use.
Help is Available at Grace Land Recovery
Beating a meth addiction can be challenging, which is why its important
to tackle the detox and recovery process with the support of caring professionals.
Grace Land Recovery takes a complete approach to treating patients and
helping them build the tools for long-term success. We’re here to help you.
To learn how we can help in your recovery journey, call
(901) 519-2655 or contact us online.
