Meth, short for methamphetamine, is a stimulant drug that has become more and more popular in the United States. Meth comes in many forms – pills, powder, or crystal meth – and is highly addictive and can lead to withdrawal symptoms or even overdose. Detoxing from meth is the first step of our meth addiction treatment at Clearbrook Treatment Center Massachusetts to address withdrawals and decrease the risk of relapse. Keep reading to learn how detox helps in recovery.
Signs of Meth Use
Unfortunately, drug use goes unnoticed until it reaches the point of abuse or addiction. Crystal meth has such a high potential for addiction that it’s easy for someone to become dependent on the drug. Physical signs of meth use will emerge when the person is a new user or when they’re becoming increasingly dependent on it.
- Thin, frail appearance
- Facial acne or sores
- Rotted teeth and poor dental hygiene (“meth mouth”)
- A droopy and wrinkly quality to the facial skin
- Convulsions
- Liver damage
- Stroke
- Lowered immunity/susceptibility to infectious disease
- A dramatic increase in body temperature
- Increased libido
- Intense scratching
Individuals who abuse meth are at a heightened risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) because of the drug’s impact on libido. Meth can simulate sexual arousal as well as increase the level of adrenaline that provides the stamina for sexual interaction. When combined with the effect of impaired judgment, those who abuse meth are more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors.
In addition to the physical repercussions of methamphetamine abuse, the drug may also lead to behavioral problems such as mood swings, social withdrawal, financial problems, and relationship problems. If you suspect that a loved one is battling this form of addiction, detoxing from meth is the first step to getting clean.
How to Detox From Meth
If you or someone you know is showing meth addiction symptoms and you want to seek the help you need, then look no further. Our detox program for methamphetamine is designed to guide you through any withdrawal symptoms you may experience.
Common meth withdrawal symptoms include:
- Dehydration
- Headaches
- Muscle pain and spasms
- Appetite change
- Intense cravings for the drug
- Psychosis
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Irregular sleep
- Cognitive issues
Some of these symptoms can worsen the longer the patient is using the drug. Symptoms like depression can slowly happen and worsen over time. Suicidal thoughts are one of the worst and biggest indicators of depression caused by meth withdrawal.
Detoxing off meth takes both a physical and mental toll on the patients. The specialists at our Massachusetts treatment center are here to support them through this process that can be tough.
Meth Withdrawal Timeline
The meth timeline for withdrawal varies depending on the patient and how long they have been using this drug. The heavier the person used crystal meth, the more severe and longer-lasting their symptoms.
The meth withdrawal timeline is as follows:
- Withdrawal starts within the first 24 hours of abstinence.
- Symptoms peak within the first 7 to 10 days of stopping the use of the drug. From this point, the intensity of the symptoms will start to decline steadily.
- Meth withdrawal typically has an average duration of 14 to 20 days, with 14 days being the most common.
While methamphetamine withdrawal can produce physical side effects, it is primarily a psychological and emotional process. Our Northeast addictions treatment center advises those who want to quit meth to undergo medically monitored detox for meth to prevent relapse and safely recover from withdrawals.
Our Meth Detox Facility
Detoxing from meth is only the first step in the recovery process. Once patients complete withdrawal treatment, the next phase of meth addiction treatment is therapy. Our counselors work with clients individually and in group settings to help patients overcome any personal obstacles that may hinder their progress and help them develop effective relapse prevention strategies.
From medical detox to substance-specific programs, our Massachusetts inpatient drug rehab can help you or a loved one get and stay sober. Contact our addiction treatment center today to take the first step in your recovery journey.
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