In the United States, opioids have taken center stage in the ongoing battle against substance abuse. However, there is another drug that has been wreaking havoc on U.S. communities for decades—methamphetamine (meth). It is a synthetic drug made from toxic chemicals such as battery acid, drain cleaner, and antifreeze.
Meth addiction is a growing problem that affects people from all walks of life. It’s a highly addictive stimulant drug that can have devastating effects on one’s physical and mental health. Fortunately, with proper substance abuse treatment, recovery is possible. To learn how to spot signs of meth abuse, deal with the symptoms of meth use disorder (MUD), and how our meth rehab in Georgia can help, call 770.759.7474 today.
What to Know About Meth Use Disorder
Methamphetamine is a stimulant drug that is chemically similar to amphetamine, a drug used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Regular meth is a pill or powder. Crystal meth resembles glass fragments or shiny bluish-white rocks of various sizes. People can take methamphetamine by smoking, swallowing, snorting, or injecting the drug. Methamphetamine increases the amount of dopamine in the brain, which is involved in movement, motivation, and reinforcement of rewarding behaviors.
Methamphetamine is highly addictive. When people stop taking it, withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, fatigue, severe depression, psychosis, and intense drug cravings. A person can overdose on methamphetamine, which often leads to a stroke, heart attack, or organ problems.
Understanding the Side Effects of Meth Abuse on Your Health
Short-term health effects include increased wakefulness and physical activity, decreased appetite, and increased blood pressure and body temperature. Long-term health effects include addiction, risk of contracting HIV and hepatitis, severe dental problems or “meth mouth,” intense itching leading to skin sores from scratching, violent behavior, and paranoia. High doses can elevate body temperature to dangerous, sometimes lethal, levels, and cause convulsions and even cardiovascular collapse and death.
Learning How to Recognize the Signs of Meth Use Disorder
Meth use disorder can be challenging to spot. However, some common signs and symptoms include:
- Weight loss
- Insomnia
- Dilated pupils
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Mood swings
- Agitation or irritability
- Impaired judgment and decision-making skills
- Financial problems due to drug use
If you suspect that a loved one is struggling with meth addiction, it’s essential to seek professional help as soon as possible.
Considering How Meth Rehab Can Help
The first step in treating meth addiction is detoxification. This process involves ridding the body of harmful toxins accumulated from prolonged substance use. Meth withdrawal can be intense and uncomfortable, so it’s important to have medical supervision during this process. Clients requiring medical detox may not qualify for immediate outpatient treatment at ALANA Recovery. Nevertheless, our team is here to help arrange a placement at a detox facility within our top-tier network of partners. Once detox is completed off-site, clients can become eligible for our addiction treatment programs.
After detox, therapy is an essential component of meth addiction treatment. Individual and group therapy can help address underlying issues that may have led to addiction and teach healthier coping mechanisms. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common therapeutic approach used in meth rehab that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors related to drug use.
At ALANA Recovery, we offer personalized meth addiction treatment plans tailored to each client’s specific needs. Our team of experienced professionals provides compassionate support throughout the recovery journey. We also offer aftercare services to help patients maintain sobriety after leaving our rehab center.
Connect with ALANA Recovery and Start Meth Rehab in Georgia Today
If you or a loved one is struggling with meth addiction, don’t wait any longer to seek help. ALANA Recovery offers holistic and compassionate care for those seeking treatment for substance use disorders. Contact us online or call 770.759.7474 today to learn more about our meth rehab in Georgia and take the first step toward a healthier, drug-free life. We’re here to support you every step of the way.