Methamphetamine is one of the most commonly abused illicit stimulants in the United States. This dangerous, illegal drug can cause severe short and long-term harm. It can destroy people’s health, relationships, and emotional well-being.
People can become addicted to meth in a very short time. But why is meth so addictive?
This article will explore the properties of meth that make it so dangerously addictive. You will learn:
- The short and long-term risks of meth abuse
- What makes meth so addictive
- How to recognize and treat meth addiction
- Where to find comprehensive addiction treatment and recovery support
If you or a loved one struggle with meth addiction, you are not alone. Find the support and comprehensive treatment you need at First Step Behavioral Health. Reach out to our intake specialists to learn more about our treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Meth?
Meth and crystal meth are common names for methamphetamine. People make methamphetamine in illicit laboratories by combining medications and household chemicals. The process of making meth is dangerous, and the final drug may be inconsistent or contain hazardous contaminants.
Methamphetamine is a highly addictive stimulant drug. It increases central nervous system (CNS) activity and can lead to a range of short-term side effects people find pleasurable. People may use meth frequently in a short period, increasing the risk of tolerance and physical dependence.
People who develop meth addiction typically require intensive treatment to quit and significant ongoing support to avoid relapse.
The Effects and Risks of Meth
Meth is a powerful stimulant drug. This means that it increases activity in the central nervous system (CNS). The short-term effects of meth include:
- Euphoria
- Increased energy
- Loss of appetite
- Rapid heart rate
- Elevated blood pressure
Meth users may also experience unwanted or dangerous side effects while using it, including:
- Aggression or violent behaviors
- Delusions
- Hallucinations
- Paranoia
- Mood swings
- Memory issues
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Depression
- Loss of coordination
- Poor concentration
People who use meth regularly may develop methamphetamine use disorder. It can be very challenging to stop taking it, even when facing the life-threatening effects of methamphetamine abuse.
Long-term meth abuse can lead to serious physical and mental health problems, including:
- Severe tooth decay
- Skin infection
- Extreme weight loss
- Lung damage
- Sexually transmitted infections
- Malnutrition
- Severe sinus and nasal damage
- Chronic runny nose
Recognizing and treating substance abuse is the only way to avoid serious, long-term effects of meth addiction.
Why is Meth So Addictive?
People may start using meth for many reasons. They may want to stay awake longer, fit in with peers, or may feel curious about the drug’s effects.
Even casual meth use can quickly spiral into a life-threatening addiction. So, why is meth so addictive?
Experts believe there may be several reasons meth is highly addictive. Here is an overview of some of these reasons.
Methods of use
Most meth users ingest the drug by inhaling or smoking it. These methods allow the drug to reach the bloodstream and brain very quickly, causing quick effects. Addiction experts believe that this can contribute to people wanting to use it more often, which increases the risk of addiction.
How it affects the brain
Meth increases central nervous system (CNS) activity and changes the balance of chemicals in the brain. It causes a flood of “feel-good” chemicals called serotonin and dopamine. People may experience euphoria (an intense feeling of pleasure, warmth, and overall well-being) while using meth. They may also experience more energy, strength, and other pleasurable effects. These effects make people want to use more of the drug, which can quickly lead to tolerance and addiction.
Withdrawal symptoms
Meth addiction impacts the entire body. When someone with meth addiction suddenly stops using it, they are likely to experience a range of physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms, including:
- Anxiety
- Chills
- Cloudy thinking
- Depression
- Extreme irritability
- Fatigue
- Inability to feel pleasure
- Insomnia followed by excessive sleep
- Intense cravings
- Low energy
- Weight gain
These symptoms can make people incredibly uncomfortable and make it hard for people to complete detox without relapsing. Even when people want to stop using meth, it can be extremely challenging.
Recognizing Meth Addiction
Recognizing meth addiction is the first step in getting help to overcome it. Meth abuse and addiction can change how people look, behave, and feel.
Some common signs of meth addiction include:
- Rapid, significant weight loss
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Paranoia
- Aggression or violent behaviors
- Hallucinations or delusions
- Scratching or picking at the skin
- Confusion
- Agitation or increased energy
- Memory problems
People may exhibit new behaviors, including:
- Using larger amounts of meth or using it more often
- Neglecting responsibilities, hobbies, and relationships
- Increased isolation
- Spending most of their time and energy getting, using, and recovering from using meth
- Social, legal, or financial trouble related to their drug use
- Having withdrawal symptoms if they stop using meth
- Spending a lot of time and energy getting, using, and recovering from using meth
People with meth addiction typically cannot simply choose to stop using it. They must receive comprehensive treatment and ongoing support.
What to Expect in Meth Addiction Treatment
Methamphetamine addiction is a complex condition that requires comprehensive treatment. Meth addiction treatment programs include:
- Medically-supported detox programs (medications, supervision, emotional support, holistic therapies)
- Behavioral therapies
- Individual, group, and family therapy
- Relapse prevention education
- Coping skills
- Medical care
- Mental health treatment
- Holistic therapies like art and music therapy, mindfulness, exercise, and nutrition support
- Aftercare planning and support
Overcoming meth addiction can be challenging, but having tailored treatment and support can help. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of meth addiction.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love struggle with meth abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the intake team at First Step Behavioral Health to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- Science Direct: Crystal methamphetamine and its effects on mental and oral health: A narrative review
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Methamphetamine
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Stimulants
- JAMA Network: Methamphetamine Use, Methamphetamine Use Disorder, and Associated Overdose Deaths Among US Adults
