Crystal meth, also known as methamphetamine, is a highly addictive drug with dangerous and devastating effects. The physical and mental effects of crystal meth can be devastating, often leading to extreme weight loss, dental issues, and severe psychological problems.
A person with a crystal meth addiction will likely show physical signs of years of drug use, emphasizing the dangers of this substance. At Michael’s House, we understand the risks of crystal meth addiction and provide a meth addiction treatment program to address this specific issue.
We know that breaking free from crystal meth addiction can be challenging, but at Michael’s House, we are here to support and guide you every step of the way. Contact us at 760.548.4032 to get help finding an addiction treatment program suitable for you or a loved one.
What Are the Effects of Crystal Meth?
Crystal meth is a dangerous and addictive drug that can have serious consequences. Short-term effects of crystal meth include:
- Increased alertness and physical activity
- Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
- Decreased appetite
Long-term effects of crystal meth include:
- Addiction and dependency
- Damaged blood vessels
- Memory loss
- Aggressive or violent behavior
- Mental health issues such as paranoia and hallucinations
However, the long-term effects of crystal meth are much more damaging. Heavy users can experience psychosis, paranoia, and delusions. Crystal meth can also lead to neurological damage, organ damage, and tooth loss. In addition, crystal meth is highly addictive and difficult to quit. Withdrawal symptoms can include depression, anxiety, and fatigue. As a result, those who use crystal meth put themselves at risk for serious health problems.
Dangers of Crystal Meth Addiction
Understanding the dangers of crystal meth addiction can help identify the need for treatment and intervention for loved ones. Here are some of the dangers of crystal meth to be aware of.
- Tremors and convulsions – Crystal meth can send your body into a state of chaos with uncontrollable twitching and violent tremors.
- Severe movement disorders – Doctors have described the movement disorders associated with crystal meth use as similar to Parkinson’s.
- Respiratory problems – Long-term side effects of crystal meth use include labor breathing and other respiratory concerns.
- Strokes – Crystal meth can damage the blood vessels in the brain so severely that the individual suffers a stroke.
- Anorexia – People with a crystal meth addiction can have a high chance of anorexia because they become so consumed by the drug that they forget to eat and take in essential nutrients.
- Crime – Crystal meth users have been known to turn to crime to finance their drug habit.
- Broken relationships – When an individual develops a crystal meth addiction, the drug becomes the only thing of importance in their lives. That means family and friends are neglected in the name of the drug.
- “Meth mouth” – One of the symptoms of crystal meth addiction is the degradation of the teeth and gums.
- Mood swings – People who use crystal meth tend to experience drastic mood changes, from extreme happiness to sadness or anger, without warning.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with crystal meth addiction, crystal meth addiction treatment options are available to help. Michael’s House can help you find a suitable treatment option for yourself or a loved one.
What Happens During Crystal Meth Addiction Treatment?
People with a crystal meth addiction face a long and challenging road to recovery. The good news is that there are many effective treatment options available. Each person’s journey will be unique, but there are some common steps that most people can take during treatment.
The first step is typically detoxification, which helps the person physically withdraw from the drug. This can be a difficult and uncomfortable process, but it is essential for clearing the body of toxins. After detox, the person can begin therapy, which can help to identify the underlying causes of their addiction. This can be a crucial step in preventing relapse in the future. Finally, the person will typically participate in some form of ongoing support, such as a 12-step program or group therapy. These programs provide essential accountability and community for people in recovery.
By taking these steps, people addicted to crystal meth can begin to build a foundation for lasting sobriety.
Discover Crystal Meth Addiction Treatment at Michael’s House
It is common for people to find themselves fighting a meth addiction unintentionally and feel the stigma associated with it. Although these dangers may be a turn-off to the drug, addiction is a complicated condition and difficult to fight alone, especially through willpower by itself.
If you know someone suffering from a crystal meth addiction, you do not have to take the journey to recovery alone. Our knowledgeable and caring admissions coordinators want to help you. We can even check your insurance coverage for you, too. Contact us today by calling our toll-free, 24-hour helpline at 760.548.4032.
