Methamphetamine, or crystal meth, is one of the most addictive substances someone can abuse. It is classified by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration as a Schedule II stimulant. Meth is sold on the streets either as a white and powdery or clear, crystal substance. Methods of administration include smoking, snorting, ingesting, or injecting. It is a potent stimulant that releases large amounts of dopamine, the pleasure-causing chemical in the brain, while simultaneously destroying the brain’s dopamine receptors. In other words, each time a person uses the drug, they need a higher dose to get the same effect. This causes a perpetual cycle of need and use meth that becomes increasingly difficult to end. To overcome this substance use disorder, it is necessary to enroll in a meth addiction treatment program. To learn about the program we offer at Silicon Beach Treatment Center, please call 213.460.1706 today.
Sign and Symptoms of Methamphetamine Abuse
Since methamphetamine is a powerful drug with a number of dangerous side effects, it is essential to familiarize yourself with some of the more prevalent symptoms of use. This way, if you suspect a family member or friend of abusing methamphetamine, you have the information to help. The following symptoms could be indicators that a friend or loved one may be using meth:
- Anxiety
- Constant grinding of teeth/tooth damage
- Depression
- Hair loss
- Insomnia
- Irrational behavior
- Isolation
These are just a few of the many symptoms that accompany meth use. Additionally essential to note, symptoms may differ when someone’s intoxicated as opposed to when they are sober.
Additional Information on Methamphetamine Addiction
Methamphetamine users find a lot of physical and emotional pleasure from getting high, so it is unusual that the person using meth will seek out treatment on their own. It is also challenging to engage in logical conversation with an active user. Therefore, if your loved one needs treatment, convincing them can become a long and challenging process. It is often best to wait until they hit rock bottom or come to you seeking help to find treatment. While it can be tempting to try to influence someone using meth, it is best not to try to push them towards treatment. Drug addiction is a tricky, dangerous disease, and its best handled by trained professionals.
It is wise to prepare yourself with information and to develop an action plan for if they come to you for help. It’s important to know that this may be when things seem most hopeless or when the person is given no other options. For example, this might occur when someone’s faced with jail time or court-appointed treatment. Don’t get upset given these circumstances. Many people find success in court-appointed treatment because it is the final straw that pushes them towards help.