Understanding Methamphetamine Addiction

Methamphetamine dependency is a severe and swiftly advancing disorder marked by the uncontrollable consumption of methamphetamine, a potent, psychologically addictive, synthetic stimulant that impacts the central nervous system.

Commonly referred to as “meth,” “crystal,” “ice,” or “Tik,” is a colourless and odourless crystal structure that is readily available and used by over 40% of Cape Town’s drug users.

Those who use methamphetamines experience a “rush” because it triggers the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is responsible for feelings of pleasure and reward.

The neurotoxic effects of methamphetamine can result in symptoms such as anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations, establishing a cycle of addiction that is challenging to overcome.

METH ADDICTION TREATMENT

The misuse of methamphetamine is a serious issue that poses risks to life and necessitates treatment for addiction. Seeking professional help is essential for overcoming the cycle of dependency, regaining health, and establishing a stable life free from drugs. Prompt intervention and a robust support system can significantly enhance the likelihood of achieving a successful recovery.

Treatment options for methamphetamine drug abuse typically require a comprehensive approach that includes cognitive-behavioural therapy and counselling through a rehab centre. Recovery is often a long-term process, requiring ongoing support and commitment from both the individual and their support network.

An intensive outpatient treatment program with Recovery from Home is a highly effective way of dealing with a substance use disorder, like crystal methamphetamine. Your physical and psychological needs during your meth addiction treatment are of utmost importance to use.

Substance abuse and mental health disorders usually go hand in hand. That is why we offer mental health services so that we can get to the cause of your methamphetamine use disorder.

Psychological Health Effects

Mentally, crystal meth can exacerbate or contribute to the onset of severe psychiatric disorders. Many users report feelings of depression, anxiety, and mood swings when not using the drug, which can cause them to relapse.

The alterations in brain chemistry caused by methamphetamine can make it increasingly challenging for individuals to feel pleasure from everyday activities, perpetuating the cycle of addiction.

Studies show that around 5-15% of users who experience psychotic symptoms can sometimes last for the rest of their lives.

Physical Health Effects of Meth Use

Long-term effects of meth use increase the risk of significant damage to the brain by reducing the amount of grey matter in several locations within the brain, which leads to devastating effects on brain function and can include symptoms similar to Parkinson’s Disease.

The other physical effects and risks related to long-term methamphetamine abuse include increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure and a heightened risk of heart attack or stroke.

Dental issues associated with meth use often involve rotting teeth due to low or non-existent self-care and the consumption of foods and drinks that are high in sugar. Teeth grinding and clenching of the jaw are also symptoms of a crystal meth addiction and may also contribute to poor oral hygiene.

SYMPTOMS OF METH WITHDRAWAL

Meth withdrawal symptoms are dependent on the level of tolerance of methamphetamine users. Because methamphetamine is a highly addictive drug, the first signs of symptoms start within 24 hours after the last dose and can last up to four weeks, with a significant “crash” period happening within the first week.

According to Wikipedia, the list of withdrawal signs and symptoms of chronic methamphetamine users includes:

Anxiety, Drug craving, Dysphoric mood, Fatigue, Increased appetite, Increased movement or decreased movement, Lack of motivation, Sleeplessness or sleepiness, Lucid dreams

CONSEQUENCES OF METHAMPHETAMINE OVERDOSE

Depending on the severity, the signs of meth overdose include:

Abnormal heart rhythm, Confusion, Issues with urinating, High or low blood pressure, High body temperature, Over-active and/or over-responsive reflexes, Muscle aches, Severe agitation, Rapid breathing, Tremors

A substantial overdose of methamphetamine may produce symptoms like:

Methamphetamine psychosis, Substantial urinary issues, Cardiogenic shock, Bleeding in the brain, Circulatory collapse, Dangerously high body temperature, Pulmonary hypertension, Kidney failure, Rapid muscle breakdown, Serotonin syndrome, “Tweaking”, Brain damage

The signs someone is about to expire from an overdose are convulsions and coma.

HOW ARE COMMUNITIES AFFECTED BY METHAMPHETAMINE USE?

Socially, the effects of meth addiction can lead to devastating consequences for relationships and community ties.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, crystal meth “is the drug that most contributes to violent crime.”

Other social issues that those who are addicted to meth can contribute towards are that it “threatens whole communities, causing new waves of crime, unemployment, child neglect or abuse, and other social ills.”

Users may experience isolation as their priorities shift towards obtaining and using the drug, often leading to conflicts with family, friends, and employers. This can result in job loss, financial instability, and legal issues, further entrenching the individual in a cycle of despair and dependence.