Methamphetamine is a potent, illegal stimulant drug. It is dangerous and highly addictive. People who start using meth may develop physical dependence and be unable to quit on their own.

Most people with meth addiction require intensive treatment programs to overcome it. They may start treatment in residential treatment before transitioning into an outpatient program.

If you or a loved one requires treatment for methamphetamine addiction, you are not alone. This article will outline what to expect during meth addiction rehab. You will learn:

• The effects and risks of meth abuse
• What to expect during inpatient and outpatient levels of care
• Where to find meth addiction treatment in Pompano Beach

Contact the intake team at First Step Behavioral Health to learn about our substance use disorder (SUD) treatment plans. You can also ask questions, verify your insurance, or schedule an intake appointment at our treatment facility.

What is Meth?

Meth is a shortened version of the word “methamphetamine.” Meth is a potent and addictive stimulant drug. Other street names for meth include:

• Crystal meth
• Stovetop
• Hawaiian salt
• Blue
• Crank
  Ice
• White
  Shards
• Shaved ice
• Zip
• Hot ice
• L.A. ice
• Speed

Illicit drug producers make methamphetamine by combining dangerous household chemicals and certain medications. The result is a risky, illegal, highly addictive drug.

People ingest meth by inhaling or smoking it. Some people may take it orally. Using meth is dangerous, regardless of how people ingest it.

The Effects and Risks of Meth Abuse

Meth is a potent stimulant that increases activity in the central nervous system (CNS). Meth reaches the bloodstream quickly after a person ingests it. The effects of meth occur quickly and may include:

• Increased blood pressure
• Loss of appetite
• Increased energy
• Elevated heart rate
• Euphoria

People may also experience unpleasant or dangerous side effects, including:

• Poor concentration 
• Memory problems
• Loss of coordination
• Depression
• Confusion
• Paranoia
• Anxiety
• Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real)
• Depression
• Delusions
• Aggression or violent behaviors

Using meth regularly can lead to tolerance. Tolerance develops when a person’s body adjusts to a specific dose of a drug. Over time, people who use meth may find they need larger doses to get the effects they want.

Prolonged meth use can lead to addiction and physical dependence. People who become addicted to meth can experience severe health complications, including:

• Skin infections, scars, and wounds that can’t heal
• Extreme weight loss
• Malnutrition
• Dental problems, including severe decay (meth mouth)
• Lung damage
• Chronic runny nose
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Severe damage to sinuses and nasal passages

Meth abuse can cause lifelong damage. People who abuse meth must seek substance abuse treatment as soon as possible to avoid new or worsening health problems.

What to Expect in Meth Addiction Treatment

Meth addiction programs are available in inpatient rehab and outpatient levels of care. In many cases, treatment for meth addiction begins with an inpatient detox and treatment program. Then, people may transition into outpatient care.

Meth addiction treatment typically occurs in stages. Here is an overview of what to expect from each stage of drug abuse treatment.

Assessment

You will likely undergo a substance abuse assessment before starting treatment. This assessment will gather information about:

• Your past and current substance abuse
• Your mental health and medical history
• Family history
• Willingness to change
• Insurance information

Your assessment may also include lab testing and a physical examination. This evaluation will help your care team create the most effective treatment plan possible.

Detox

Your detox treatment plan will include therapies to help you manage meth withdrawal symptoms, which might include:

• Anxiety
• Increased appetite
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Delusions
• Intense cravings

Your detox treatment plan may consist of:

• Round-the-clock supervision, support, and access to treatment
• FDA-approved medications to manage withdrawal symptoms
• Individual counseling and support groups
• Holistic therapies like yoga, mindfulness, and nutrition support

This care will ensure you remain safe and comfortable throughout the meth detox process.

Treatment

After a safe, complete detox, you will continue your treatment program. You may continue treatment in a residential program or move to an outpatient rehab program.

Your treatment plan may include:

• Mental health treatment
• Cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT) or other behavioral therapies
• Individual, group, and family counseling
• Relapse prevention education and coping skills
• Holistic therapies like exercise, nature therapy, mindfulness, and more
• Medications and medical treatment

Some people spend just days or weeks in treatment, while others spend months receiving support. Your treatment program will depend on your unique needs.

Aftercare

Addiction recovery is not a final destination. Instead, you must stay active and engaged in recovery after completing a rehab program. During meth addiction treatment, you will work with your care team to develop an aftercare plan. Your plan may include medical and mental health care, 12-step meetings, individual therapy, and other activities that support your lifelong recovery.

Find Meth Addiction Treatment in Pompano Beach

If you or someone you love struggles with meth abuse or addiction, help is available at First Step Behavioral Health. Contact our intake team to learn about our holistic treatment and recovery support programs. You may also contact us with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.

References:

1. National Institute of Health (NIH): Methamphetamine
2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Know the Risks of Meth