Few drugs are more devastating than methamphetamine. Whether you call it “crank”, “crystal”, “speed”, “chalk”, etc., it’s tough to deny the debilitating physical and mental effects that coincide with its use. Thousands of people die from using it each year. Many others suffer illnesses in addition to losing their looks and even cognitive function with regular meth use.
And the damage goes far beyond the individual. Friends and family members are often affected deeply, resulting in strained relationships, fights and people leaving. Coworkers too may struggle with their fellow employee’s drug use, often being pushed to the point that they can’t take the individual’s poor quality or work or unpredictability anymore.
But if you or a loved once is struggling with meth addiction, the good news is that you’re not alone. Thousands of people seek treatment for meth addiction every year. With the right treatment program, a good support system and a positive mindset, it is possible for meth addiction to be vanquished. Keep reading to learn more about how to quit using meth.
Quick Facts About Meth Addiction
- According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), about 1.6 million people use using meth each year, and over 7000,000 use it in a month.
- Meth use causes intense high and feelings of exhilaration that are quickly followed by a comedown. This comedown can come with intense feelings of depression and malaise, which unfortunately is often what causes people to turn to meth again as a quick fix.
- Relapse is common following treatment, so much so that many people consider it a natural part of the recovery process (many people who relapse go on to lead successful, meth-free lives)
- Successful addiction treatment involves long-term therapy and healthy practices that will span years to a lifetime
Finding the Right Addiction Treatment Program is Key
Most addiction experts agree that finding the right addiction treatment program is the key to successfully kicking any serious drug habit. And since meth can have such a stronghold on users, being in the right program and getting the treatment you need is perhaps more important than any other factor.
But how to decide on the right addiction treatment program for you? First and foremost, it’s crucial to select a program that’s actually focused on and / or has really experienced with meth addiction recovery (as opposed to a general addiction rehab with little to no experience).
It’s also important to decide what kind of treatment program best suits your personal needs and schedule. While meth addiction recovery should be your primary focus, it’s unrealistic to think that you can just drop everything and devote every second of the day to it. That’s why the most comprehensive treatment centers, like Warner Park Recovery, are now offering intensive outpatient and partial day recovery programs in addition to their usual inpatient treatment options,
Since meth addiction is both a physical and mental affliction, it’s also crucial that the program’s staff include licensed medical personnel as well as therapists. There should also be a focus on longterm recovery in addition to handling initial detox. Many programs make the mistake of getting their patients through withdrawal, only to leave them on their own after that. In reality, getting through detox is only the beginning. The best programs offer ongoing treatment meant for the long-term, helping their patients learn important coping skills for life. Beating meth addiction is all about opening up a brighter, healthier future, after all, so real recovery needs to be focused on reshaping one’s life and setting new goals.
What to Expect from Detox
In order to get through successful detox and recovery, it’s important to know what to expect. By being prepared for this, you will not feel blindsided by anything that may come.
The initial part of detox will be withdrawal, which can come with some unpleasant symptoms. However, it is important to remember that these symptoms are all temporary. According to Healthline, withdrawal may begin right after the last meth dose or within hours or days following, and symptoms may include any of the following:
- bloodshot or irritated eyes
- feelings of anxiety and / or depression
- decreased libido
- difficulty falling or staying asleep
- increased appetite and cravings
- lack of energy (fatigue)
Following initial withdrawal, symptoms will gradually improve. You may feel a bit “foggy” for a bit or feeling like something is missing, but this is your body learning how to function again without relying on a drug. Keep in mind that however unpleasant drug detox may be, it’s all leading toward a healthier, meth-free future.
How to Recognize Relapse Signs
While relapse is common in those who have already started addiction treatment, it’s important to recognize the early signs of it before the problem becomes full-fledged. Common relapse signs include sudden cravings or urges to seek out or use meth, but it can all start with smaller feelings of needing to be impulsive or suddenly break free from everyday life.
That said, there are things you can do once you recognize these signs to prevent relapse. Calling a friend or family member can serve as both support and a much-needed distraction, as can engaging in a hobby or exercise. Reaching out to a sponsor or personnel at your treatment center is also highly recommended, as is attending group therapy sessions.
Remember that keeping up with ongoing post-detox treatment is key to long-term recovery, as is practicing a healthy lifestyle in general. With the right mindset and fresh goals in your life, beating meth addiction is definitely within reach.
