RSS Methamphetamine Addiction
What is methamphetamine?
Methamphetamine is a very powerful psychostimulant that is highly addictive and classified as a psychoactive substance. It is known by several other names on the street such as “crystal meth”, “crank”, “ice”, “speed”, or just “meth” for short. Methamphetamine is characterized by its euphoric effects and how it increases a person’s ability to concentrate better, their alertness, their energy levels, and their self esteem. Unfortunately, it can lead to methamphetamine addiction which can be extremely difficult to overcome.
Methamphetamine triggers a release of dopamine that is like a waterfall in the brain and activates our psychological reward system. As a result, there is an extremely high incidence of abuse, addiction, and dependency to the extent that most addiction treatment and recovery facilities today offer methamphetamine addiction programs. The DEA views meth as one of the primary drug threats in the US today while health organizations and other medical professionals see methamphetamine addiction as serious public health threat.
Facts and statistics to be aware of
It’s no secret that methamphetamine has impacted American society for decades now and has wreaked havoc on many cities and neighborhoods throughout the US. Methamphetamine addiction destroys families and relationships throughout the country on a regular basis. The following facts and statistics regarding methamphetamine are ones that everyone should be aware of:
- the popularity of methamphetamine can be attributed to how easily it is manufactured as well as how its cost is much lower than other street drugs such as cocaine or heroin
- the drug can remain in your system for up to 12 hours which means that the high that you experience lasts longer than that of other drugs
- one of the more obvious physical signs of methamphetamine addiction is a condition known as “meth mouth” or the rotting of one’s teeth that typically occurs the longer the drug is used
- methamphetamines can be ingested by injecting them, smoking them, snorting them (inhaling through the nose), or by taking it orally in tablet form
Additonally, when the ingestion of methamphetamine is interrupted or abruptly stopped after long periods of time, the individual will oftentimes experience a variety of withdrawal symptoms, some of which can be quite severe and extremely unpleasant. These symptoms include anxiety and panic attacks, depression, insomnia and restlessness, irritability, nausea and vomiting, and paranoia. Additionally, these symptoms can last up to 48 hours.
Contact us today
If you or a loved one is suffering with methamphetamine addiction, please contact the Freedom Center to speak with one of our addiction specialists that will effectively address your personal needs. You can reach us directly by calling the toll-free phone number that is listed above at the upper right of this page for more information.
