A functional addict or a high-functioning addict is someone with a drug or alcohol addiction who doesn’t portray the typical signs of an addict. A high-functioning meth addict, for example, may not exhibit the typical signs of meth addiction, like poor dental hygiene. But you may wonder, “is it possible to hide your addiction?” Yes, it is. While meth addicts are often portrayed as thin, sickly people in movies and TV shows, addiction isn’t always that obvious. As a drug rehab in Pennsylvania, we know what it’s like being a functional meth addict; we’re sharing some insight on the hidden aspects of methamphetamine addiction.
What Is Methamphetamine?
Methamphetamine, whether it’s crystal meth vs meth, is a highly dangerous and addictive stimulant that is illegally manufactured in meth labs and distributed across the globe. The ingredients in meth often include a variety of toxic chemicals and additives like battery acid, drain cleaner, lantern fuel, antifreeze, amphetamine, and other chemical derivatives. Because meth is synthetically made from different harmful chemicals, it can cause severe physical and mental damage. As a result of the physical dependence caused by meth abuse, meth addiction treatment is advised for recovery.
The most common side effects of meth include:
- Increased alertness and attention
- Decreased appetite
- Rapid breathing
- Euphoria
- Irregular heartbeat
- Hyperthermia (increase in core body temperature)
- Addiction
- Hallucinations
- Paranoia
- Repetitive movements
- Changes in chemical make-up of the brain
- Loss of memory
- Difficulties concentrating
- Severe weight loss
- Mood swings
- Violent behavior
- Dental problems, otherwise known as meth mouth
Meth is an extremely dangerous drug that can negatively impact a person’s life. At Clearbrook Treatment Centers Pennsylvania, we offer a medical detox that can help a person with a methamphetamine addiction safely get through the withdrawal stage and begin their recovery.
Functional Meth Addict Signs
Because people have a certain idea of addiction, they don’t understand what it’s like being a functional meth addict. A functioning meth addict may begin their day by using meth and continue to do so frequently as the day progresses. Because meth is a stimulant, it increases a person’s alertness and energy, allowing them to concentrate on their responsibilities even when they’re high. Like many functioning addicts, a high-functioning meth addict may also have a good education and a good job. Not only would they be able to perform at work even when they’re high, but they may also be successful. A functional meth addict may live comfortably and maintain good relationships with their loved ones despite their drug problem. They would still make it to their kids’ soccer games and maintain a social life. Rather than having broken relationships or frequent run-ins with the law, they’re often responsible.
One of these most common signs of meth addiction is poor dental hygiene or tooth decay, a condition commonly referred to as meth mouth. Whenever people mention methamphetamine addiction, they usually mention meth mouth as well; however, this condition isn’t always apparent in functional addicts of this kind. A high-functioning methamphetamine addict may take great care of their health, including their dental hygiene. This can make it difficult to identify their drug problem.
While there’s no doubt that functional addiction exists, a high-functioning addict cannot continue to use meth without experiencing certain repercussions. The ability to continue functioning through their drug use and maintain a certain façade is temporary. Being a high-functioning addict also makes the person believe that they’re almost invincible or an exception to the dangers of addiction. This is far from the truth. As with any other drug, long-term abuse can eventually manifest itself into dangerous and life-threatening problems.
Those with methamphetamine addiction or any other form of substance abuse should get professional treatment right away. Our inpatient drug treatment in Pennsylvania offers 24-hour care and medical assistance to those who want to regain control of their lives and get sober. Call our Clearbrook team now at 570-536-9621 to learn more about one of the top rehabs in PA.
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