Meth addiction brings serious health issues that can follow an individual for years after entering recovery. If you or a loved one are struggling with meth addiction, a meth addiction treatment program can bring the healing you need.
The sooner you get help for meth use, the better. Call 662.222.2989 for more information about the meth addiction treatment programs available at Woodland Recovery Center Mississippi.
Understanding What Meth Does to the Body
Meth is made with a varying mixture of ingredients, many of which are toxic. The components of meth can cause short and long-term consequences for a person’s physical and mental health.
Meth is a stimulant, which means it provides a sudden rush of energy. A person using meth may be able to go for long periods without eating or sleeping. The effects of meth occur because the drug impacts brain chemistry, leading to significant mental health concerns.
The stimulant effect of meth also has a direct impact on heart health. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), individuals who use meth for long periods face a serious risk of developing cardiovascular issues, such as high blood pressure, stroke, and heart attack. Fatal overdose can occur when the heart is overwhelmed and stops functioning.
Common Symptoms of Meth Addiction
Understanding what meth does to the body involves more than the systemic health consequences. Meth use also comes with common physical symptoms.
If you suspect a loved one is using meth, physical symptoms to watch for include:
- Weight loss
- Dental issues and tooth loss
- Severe acne or skin abscesses
- Dilated pupils
- Rapid eye movement
- Twitching or jerking
- Animated, excited physical gestures
- Pacing or restlessness
Both meth itself and the consequences of going without food or sleep often lead to severe mental health concerns. Individuals using meth may experience:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Psychosis
- Hallucinations
- Insomnia
- Issues regulating mood
- Violent behavior
Oftentimes, the psychological effects of meth become particularly pronounced during detox. Meth detox should always be done under medical supervision. Medical professionals can monitor the patient’s heart health and address mental health conditions that require psychiatric care.
Other Signs of Meth Addiction
Meth use is usually accompanied by additional signs. If you’re wondering whether a loved one is using meth, it can help to know what to look for. Meth can be smoked, snorted, injected, or eaten. Drug paraphernalia that indicates meth use includes:
- Glass or metal pipes
- Syringes
- Burnt spoons
- Plastics or plastic bags with white residue
- White powder
There are also certain behavioral signs of meth addiction. Common indications that a loved one has developed a meth addiction include:
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Spending time with new friends
- Isolating
- Missing money or requesting to borrow money
- Having unpaid bills
- Pawning or selling personal items of value
- Loss of job or frequent changes in employment
When a person is actively using meth, the drug’s effects can make it very difficult for them to admit that there’s a problem. When confronted, they may be defensive. However, encouraging them to seek treatment can bring the help they need to heal.
Get Help for Meth Addiction at Woodland Recovery Center – Mississippi
Woodland Recovery Center Mississippi provides inpatient and outpatient addiction treatment services in Southaven, MS. Our programs are designed to provide every patient with the tools and resources that will help them make the changes that can lead to a lasting recovery.
If a loved one is exhibiting symptoms of meth addiction, we can help get them the treatment they need. Give us a call today at 662.222.2989 to discuss your concerns and learn more about the meth addiction treatment programs available at Woodland Recovery Center Mississippi.
