What Are the Effects of Meth Abuse?

Drug use has been a problem in the US for as long as we can remember, but the danger has elevated over the past few decades and continues to put millions of people at risk – especially among meth users. Without awareness, treatment, and prevention, it’ll only grow worse.

More than 2.6 million Americans above the age of 12 use meth at least once every year, and nearly half of those individuals are living with a methamphetamine use disorder. Even worse, hundreds of people die from meth overdoses every week in the United States.

Atlantic Recovery Center is a top-rated drug and alcohol rehab center in South Florida. Contact us today to learn more about how our meth treatment programs can help you during the recovery process.

What is Meth?

Meth, also known as methamphetamine or crystal meth, is a highly-addictive stimulant that creates a euphoric reaction almost immediately. Although methamphetamine was first synthesized in 1893, its production wasn’t streamlined until 1919 and didn’t become popular in the United States until World War II – when soldiers would use it to stay awake. Of course, not many people were aware of the risks back then. 

Today, the drug is used by millions of people – despite the dangers being well-known and often talked about. If you or someone you know is struggling with meth addiction, don’t hesitate to reach out for help – it could save a life. For more assistance, contact us at Atlantic Recovery Center to learn more about our South Florida rehab programs. 

What Are the Effects of Meth Abuse?

According to the Drug Enforcement Agency, methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule II drug – which means that while it has medical uses, it also has potential for misuse, addiction, and dependence.  

First, let’s take a look at the most common short-term effects of crystal meth:

• Hyperactivity
• Dilated pupils
• Weight changes
• Increased body temperature
• Increased blood pressure
• Changes to your appetite
• Agitation, temper, outbursts, and mood swings
• Changes to your sleeping patterns
• Rotting teeth
• Hallucinations
• Chest pain and high heart rate

Next, let’s take a look at the most common long-term effects of meth abuse:

• Heart disease, respiratory problems, and heart damage
• Liver or kidney failure
• Anxiety, paranoia, and psychosis
• Memory loss and other cognitive defects
• Changes to the structure of your brain
• Violent behavior and aggressive outbursts
• Difficulty concentrating
• Severe dental issues and poor dental health
• Extreme weight loss concerns
• Skin infections and premature signs of aging

Since meth easily and quickly crosses the blood-brain barrier, the effects are almost instant and can last several hours – if not longer. Even after the immediate symptoms pass, meth will remain in the body for several days.

How to Treat the Many Different Effects of Meth

While there isn’t a cure for meth addiction, many different treatment methods and techniques are proven to work – under the right circumstances, of course. Recovery not only requires commitment from the individual, but it often takes a strong support system. 

Treatment will vary for each individual, but it generally consists of a combination of therapy, medication, counseling, 12-step programs, and a variety of lifestyle changes. Most recovery centers require the individual to complete a detoxification program before treatment begins. 

There are two primary types of recovery facilities – inpatient and outpatient. Inpatient treatment requires the individual to live under strict conditions with 24/7 care, while outpatient treatment allows the individual to continue living their normal lifestyle outside of daily treatment hours. 

How to Find Meth Addiction Treatment in South Florida

Are you or someone you know struggling with meth addiction? Are the effects of crystal meth starting to impact your ability to live a happy, healthy, and rewarding life? Do you need professional help in your journey toward recovery? If so, then we’d be honored to help! At Atlantic Recovery Center, our door is always open to those that need it most. Located in South Florida, we provide residential treatment for a wide range of substance use disorders, drug addictions, and mental health issues – contact us today to learn more about our meth rehab center in Florida!