Methamphetamine affects the body and mind. It’s not a benign drug. Most importantly, abuse affects all segments of the population. Are you able to recognize the signs of meth addiction?
Meth Users Initially Hide the Substance Abuse
Therapists at any good-quality meth addiction treatment center Houston trusts know that it’s initially hard to pinpoint abuse. That’s because meth users can hide the effects of the drug for a short while. However, once dependency sets in, signs of meth addiction become visible, too. Getting help at this point is essential.
Most Common Physical and Psychological Signs of Meth Addiction
Meth is a stimulant. It eliminates a healthy appetite and sleep pattern. Therefore, the user’s up at all hours of the day or night. They don’t eat much.
Therefore, nutrient intake becomes insufficient. You’ll notice changes in weight, skin tone, and hair quality. Besides that, they become more likely to get sick with infections or viral conditions.
Meth mouth happens because saliva production goes down. Therefore, certain bacteria begin to thrive in the mouth. Rotting teeth can be the result. However, there are other physical symptoms, too.
Frequently, it takes a doctor to notice liver damage or stress on a heart. The person might complain of always being hot. Sometimes, they’ll suffer heart palpitations.
Of course, there are also psychological signs that point toward meth abuse. In the very beginning, dopamine release results in a glut. The accompanying euphoria reinforces the drug abuse. Over time, the persistent neurotransmitter imbalance has detrimental effects.
Someone may experience hallucinations. A person might begin scratching their head until the scalp bleeds to remove imaginary bugs. Paranoia isn’t far behind. Suddenly, the individual acts out violently because of imagined threats.
Detox Begins the Healing Process
Does someone you know struggle with the signs of meth addiction? Treatment is vital for recovery. However, the first step must be detox. Withdrawal symptoms may begin 12 to 24 hours after the last dose.
Extreme tiredness is the first sign that the drug’s left the system. Your body finally has an opportunity to sleep. Next, there come hunger and depression. That’s why a medical detox at a good-quality facility is the best option. Treatments include:
- Consistent medical supervision of the withdrawal process
- Psychotherapy that helps with depression and possible anxiety
- Nutritional counseling and healthy meals to ensure physical healing
- Chiropractic care that focuses on bodily and mental wellness
- Cognitive behavioral therapy that enables you to chart a course for rehab and relapse prevention
How to Get Help
Did you know that you can get help for a loved one? Sometimes, people need encouragement to reach out for treatment. You can be instrumental in assisting someone get clean. That said, treatment is available for you, too.
When you notice the signs of meth addiction, don’t wait. Now’s the time to get the help of professionals. The habit will get worse. Addiction specialists at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston can assist you right now. Call 866.516.8356.
