Methamphetamine, also known as meth, is a highly addictive stimulant drug that can be especially harmful to your physical and mental health. However, many people may not be familiar with the signs of meth use in a loved one, and the problem can go on far too long, possibly leading to irreparable damage. Protect those you care about by learning how to identify meth use and what you can do to help someone in your life overcome this powerful addiction.
If you seek meth addiction treatment for yourself or someone else, Promises Right Step is here to help. Call us at 17135283709 or fill out our online form to schedule an intake assessment and discuss which of our treatment options is right for you.
What Are Signs of Meth Use?
If you are unfamiliar with meth, you may not know how to tell if someone is using the drug. Be on the lookout for these signs of meth use:
Changes in Appearance
Meth can take a toll on a person’s appearance since they may start to overlook daily hygiene and fail to eat regularly. This can result in an unkempt appearance and rapid weight loss. Meth can also lead to sores or scabs on the skin from excessive scratching. You might also notice that their pupils are dilated when under the influence of meth.
Uncharacteristic Behavior
People using meth may begin behaving erratically or aggressively. They may also seem restless or paranoid. Their sleep patterns may change as the drug can be very stimulating, keeping them awake for long periods.
Cognitive Impairment
Meth can be harmful to brain health, making it more challenging to focus. People using the drug can become increasingly disorganized and forgetful.
Poor Dental Health
Meth use can cause a condition known as meth mouth, in which a person experiences rotting teeth, rapid tooth loss, and gum disease.
Common Meth Side Effects
In addition to the above signs of meth use, a person using the drug puts themself at risk of various mental and physical health conditions. Some risks of using meth over the long term are:
- Cardiovascular problems
- High blood pressure
- Increased risk of stroke
- Impaired immune function
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Hallucinations
- Psychosis
It is also important to note that meth side effects can persist long after someone stops using the drug, so getting help for meth addiction as early as possible is a priority.
Overcoming Meth Addiction
Meth is highly addictive, and a person can quickly become dependent on the drug, leading to intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms when they cannot access it. Here are some helpful tips for overcoming meth addiction:
Seek Professional Help
Since meth is so potent, many people require professional treatment to recover. Meth addiction treatment programs provide the supervision of medical staff, the support of trained therapists, and access to medications to ease withdrawal and address mental health symptoms.
Build a Support Network
A strong support system can go a long way toward keeping a person on track for recovery. Support networks can consist of friends, family members, support groups, or addiction treatment staff who can offer encouragement, accountability, and understanding throughout the recovery process.
Develop Healthy Coping Strategies
When trying to eliminate the habit of using meth, one needs to replace it with a healthy activity. Take up beneficial practices like meditation, yoga, hiking, or any physical activity or holistic technique that resonates. Staying active is invaluable for alleviating stress and reducing the desire to self-medicate with meth or other drugs.
Call Promises Right Step for Meth Addiction Treatment
Meth addiction is a serious issue that requires urgent attention. If you recognize meth side effects in a loved one, you can find the compassionate care and understanding you need at Promises Right Step, where clients are treated with the respect they deserve and receive the help they need to start on the path to sobriety and a new life.
Give us a call today at 17135283709 to find help for someone you care about.
