Methamphetamine Addiction

What Causes Meth Addiction?

Methamphetamine, also called “crystal meth,” “Tina,” or “ice,” is categorized by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a Schedule II substance—meaning it has a high potential for misuse and addiction. 

Often found in powdered form (snorted or injected), meth provides a “euphoric” high that lasts six to 12 hours. However, when this high starts to wear off, many strive to maintain this high with more meth or try to obtain it again. In fact, many experience a “crash” after using meth, which motivates them to use more and avoid this.

Using meth, however, can have serious health consequences—in the short-term and long-term. It suppresses your appetite (often leading to unhealthy weight loss in the long term), increases wakefulness, causes irregular and rapid heartbeats, increases blood pressure, and increases breathing rate. As such, other health effects may further include heart attack, stroke, kidney damage, seizures, and overdose (fatal or non-fatal). 

Certain individuals are also at a higher risk of using meth, including:

• Individuals with previous substance use disorders or addictions
• Individuals struggling with mismanaged or undiagnosed mental health conditions
• Individuals experiencing high stress (such as students)
• Individuals with a family history of addiction

At Freedom Recovery Centers (FRC), we’re here to help you reclaim your life and break free from the chains of addiction. With methamphetamine-related overdose deaths tripling between 2015 and 2019, it’s more important than ever to find the right support. 

While each treatment program with FRC is tailored to each individual’s needs, you can expect a combination of evidence-based treatment and holistic therapies to help you regain control, rebuild your health, and create a future free from meth addiction. Call us at 804-635-3746 to begin your journey today.

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Symptoms of Meth Addiction

Not everyone who uses meth will become addicted to it. At the same time, this drug has a powerful tendency for misuse and addiction. Initial signs of meth use may include frequent itching, nervous scratching, and reduced fatigue. As time goes on, symptoms of addiction may begin to arise, including:

• Try to stop use but unable to
• Continuing to use meth despite negative health consequences and other adverse effects
• Strong cravings for meth
• Failure to meet obligations, such as school, work, or family commitments
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when stopping use

With continued use, dependency occurs. This means the body experience withdrawal symptoms when halting the use of meth. These symptoms usually start with a couple of days after your last use. Symptoms may include:

• Fatigue
• Insomnia or trouble sleeping
• Vivid dreams
• Mood swings/irritability
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Intense cravings

The right support and care can help you emotionally and physically overcome these symptoms and move past the withdrawal phase. Typically, withdrawal can last a week to several weeks. Cravings can also come and go for several weeks or even months, depending on the severity of misuse.

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Treatment for Meth Addiction

The exact approach to treatment depends on each individual’s situation and needs. For instance, while a medical detox is not usually necessary for meth addiction, it may be recommended if other substances—such as alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines—are involved.

Typically, your treatment plan will include a combination of approaches, including the following.

Evidence-Based Talk Therapy

Behavioral therapies are essential to overcome any addiction. These types of talk therapies help you identify your triggers, combat negative thought patterns, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Your treatment may include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)
• Group Therapy
• Family Therapy
• Grief & Loss Counseling
• Motivational Interviewing
• Anger Management‍

Health & Wellness Approaches

At FRC, we take a holistic approach to your care. Addiction often leads individuals to neglect their mental and physical well-being. This is why we offer various workshops, programs, classes, and more to help improve both your physical and mental health.

Aftercare Planning

At the end of your program, we set you up for success by providing resources and support beyond your initial treatment plan. This may involve support groups, meet-ups, and strategies to use in situations where you may feel tempted.

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Why Choose Freedom Recovery Centers

With the FRC team, we strive to offer holistic and evidence-based care—but we aren’t just “another facility.” Located in Richmond, Virginia, our rehab center offers comfortable beds, yummy and nutritious food, a gym, a nail studio, a massage clinic, basketball courts, and more. We understand that healing goes beyond traditional therapeutic approaches, and we strive to help you reconnect with your purpose and joy.

The truth is that you don’t have to do this alone. Our team is with you every step of the way. We’re here to answer your call 24/7. Whenever you’re ready, we’ll answer.

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Reclaim Your Life

Meth addiction can feel like a never-ending cycle. But it is possible to break. While you might feel overwhelmed or nervous about getting the help you need, know it takes courage and bravery to take that first step. When you’re ready, our team is here to help. Call us today or fill out our online form to verify your insurance.

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FAQs

What medications are used to treat meth addiction?

Treating meth addiction often doesn’t involve medically-assisted treatment (MAT). Yet, for moderate or severe addictions, some medications may be used to help alleviate cravings and withdrawal symptoms. The two most commonly used medications include injectable naltrexone and oral bupropion.

What are evidence-based treatments for meth addiction?

Evidence-based treatments for meth addiction include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Motivational Interviewing (MI)
• Mindfulness
• Exercise

How long does it take to overcome a meth addiction?

This may vary from individual to individual based on the severity of a person’s addiction. Withdrawal symptoms often peak within seven to 10 days. After this, some withdrawal symptoms—like cravings—can linger for several weeks or months. For some individuals, this can lead to relapse. This is why undergoing a program under proper care and guidance is crucial for overcoming meth addiction. At FRC, we can help you learn strategies to combat withdrawal symptoms and cravings, and help you build healthy coping skills.

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