How to get off meth

First, it is important to notice the obvious signs and symptoms of your meth addiction:

The effects of methamphetamine go far beyond the psychological.

- Weight loss (meth shuts down the brains hunger centers)

- Sleep deprivation (the constant stimulation shorts out the need for sleep)

- Dehydration

- Elevated body temperature

- Skin abscesses (caused when meth is injected into the skin, instead of a vein).

- Osteoporosis (teeth and bones become more vulnerable and break easier)

- Decreased libido

Because meth radically changes the brains chemistry, this change manifests in a number of
behavioral changes as well. Users experience severe paranoia which can be followed by social isolation. Hallucinations and aggressive behavior are marked by wild mood swings.

Going from using meth once to using it regularly

Addiction is a disease that intensifies the more often a person takes the drug. While not everyone who uses meth becomes addicted, there are certain pre-conditions that can result in a meth addiction. Previous drug use, depression and isolation are contributing factors to ice addiction.

Keep in mind that the brain controls ones actions and behaviours. When the brain changes due to the drugs effects, it can be extremely hard to battle the cravings and quit the drug.

Treatment options for those who suffer meth addiction.

Detoxification

Detoxification is an important medical process that can help a person struggling with meth addiction overcome the withdrawal symptoms as safely as possible.

Withdrawal symptoms occur in a relatively predictable cycle - symptoms will first appear 24 hours after the last intake, and the peak is at 7 to 10 days after quitting. They then start to reduce within 14 to 20 days of abstinence.

Detoxification involves assessment and screening for other medical conditions. The users GP will recommend medications that can ease the withdrawal symptoms and minimise complications when quitting meth.

Once meth is completely out of their system they can begin working on how to maintain recovery. Treatment methods include behavioural therapy, medication and support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous, Lives Lived Well (Australia). The goal of treatment is to help a person in recovery lead a healthy life without meth. In some cases, more than one method is used at the same time.

Meth rehabilitation and living without the drug.

Depending on the persons needs, there are residential or outpatient programs for individuals in recovery. Outpatient programs suit those who can start coping without the drug while in their regular environment, although with the highly addictive and damaging nature of meth, this option is rare. Residential programs may be more helpful, as the person is removed from the environment where the addiction started, and they can begin a new path under the care and supervision of professionals.

If anyone reading this is struggling from a meth addiction, feel free to message me directly with any questions you have. I'd be more than happy to help you out where I can.