Crystal meth withdrawal is a main contributor to someone’s continued use of this dangerous drug. The effects of crystal meth can be devastating in the lives of the individuals who use it. It can lead to health problems and impact their social, work, and family relationships.
It is crucial to end the use of this drug to prevent irreparable damage to all aspects of an individual’s life. Knowing the dangers and effects of crystal meth can help someone decide to get proper care to combat addiction to it.
Crystal Meth Dangers
Crystal meth, also known as methamphetamines, is a stimulant drug produced and distributed illicitly on the streets. It is a quickly and easily produced substance that can be profitable for individuals who make and sell the product. However, the dangers of crystal meth can lead to severe impacts to a person’s health and overall well-being.
Crystal meth can cause an increase in heart rate, elevated blood pressure, extreme weight loss and malnutrition. These dangerous side effects can be devastating to a person’s health, requiring hospitalization to prevent further complications or even death.
Crystal Meth Abuse
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), in 2021 approximately 2.5 million people aged 12 and older reported using crystal meth within the last 12 months. NIDA also reports that over 32,000 overdose deaths in 2021 included stimulant drugs other than cocaine but primarily methamphetamines.
Crystal meth abuse wreaks havoc on individuals and communities across the United States. The euphoric effects of this drug contribute to its potential for abuse. It can also cause increased energy levels and decreased need for sleep, suppressed appetite, and elevated mood.
However, these effects are short-lived, contributing to a person’s continued use of the drug resulting in addiction and crystal meth withdrawal.
Stages of Crystal Meth Abuse
Crystal meth abuse, like many other substances, is characterized by the progression of use and escalating consequences of using the drug. Understanding how using this drug recreationally, regularly, and abusing crystal meth can help shed light on its effects.
Initial Effects With Recreational Use
Recreationally used, crystal meth can cause users to feel a euphoric “rush” once the drug enters into the system. It is almost instantaneous and can cause elevated mood, a grandiose sense of self, increased energy levels, and focus.
However, because these effects are short-lived, individuals may end up using this drug more often and in greater quantities.
Effects of Regular Use
Regular use of crystal meth can lead to building up a tolerance to the drug. This tolerance can cause users to need more and more of the drug in order to feel the desired effects.
Continued use of the drug will eventually result in dependence, often requiring medical detox to aid in the cessation of using this drug. Crystal meth withdrawal can be difficult to endure and the symptoms often lead people to use the drug again to alleviate them.
End Stages of Abuse and Addiction
With continued use of this drug and building a tolerance for regular use, it can lead to dependence and addiction. Those struggling with crystal meth addiction often find it extremely difficult to stop using the drug without professional help.
The mental health impacts and physical cravings contribute to continued use. Fortunately, detox can help individuals who find themself in this predicament.
Crystal Meth Detox and Timeline
Crystal meth detox is designed to help those who struggle with the drug to remove the substance from the body while controlling cravings to make long-term recovery attainable. Detox for crystal meth will vary from person to person. However, the general timeline can give some insight into what is expected.
Within the first 24 to 72 hours, crystal meth withdrawal symptoms can begin. These symptoms can include fatigue, increased appetite, and intense cravings for the drug.
On days 4 to 10, users can experience a peak in these withdrawal symptoms, as well as other symptoms. These can include anxiety, depression, and disturbed sleep. After 10 days, most of these symptoms should subside—however, the intense cravings could be persistent.
Medications and Therapies
Therapies and medications used in the treatment of crystal meth withdrawal can make a difference in the individuals’ recovery success. Additionally, medications used can treat a variety of symptoms from depression and anxiety to the cravings that lead many to relapse.
The therapies used are in place to help the individual learn healthy coping skills for life’s daily challenges. CBT and DBT aim to change negative thoughts and behaviors into more positive skills that promote long-term recovery.
Begin Living A Healthier Life
Struggle with substance abuse can be a monster that alters the individual’s path in life. Crystal meth is no different. It can lead to devastating impacts to someone’s health, lifestyle, and overall well-being. For those individuals who find themselves struggling, there is help available. If you or a loved one are struggling, we can help.
At Brentwood Springs we offer a tailored care plan that helps these individuals to move past addiction and begin living a healthier lifestyle.
Call us today and begin on the path to a healthier, happier life.
