Crystal meth is a highly addictive crystalline drug that can be snorted, smoked, or injected into the veins. It is one of the most destructive drugs available and will quickly and efficiently deteriorate the mind and body of the user. Crystal meth is a stimulant, like cocaine, but can be up to three times as powerful at a far lower price. While the initial experience of crystal meth may induce artificial euphoria, the drug’s short- and long-term effects are ugly and terrifying. The effects of meth abuse on the physical and mental well-being of a person are profound.
But with the right support in a meth addiction treatment program like that offered through The Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, individuals addicted to meth can heal and recover.
The Effects of Meth Abuse on the Brain
Using crystal meth creates an extreme feeling of adrenaline caused by a huge spike in dopamine production in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter involved in creating a sense of reward that prompts the brain to crave the repetition of certain activities. When overproduced, this chemical can lead to a nearly immediate addiction. The high associated with crystal meth can last up to fourteen hours and is followed by extreme fatigue and agitation as the drug leaves the system. With repetitive use, crystal meth users can become perpetually irritable and aggressive, especially after long periods of sleep deprivation. The comedown off meth may also induce psychosis similar to schizophrenia in some users.
The Effects of Meth Abuse on the Body
Those who become addicted to crystal meth are at an increased risk of many health issues and potentially dangerous situations. Crystal meth can cause the user to become violent and impulsive, leading to injury, arrest, or death. Additionally, crystal meth greatly increases the likelihood of heart attack, stroke, mental illness, and suicide. Over a relatively short period, crystal meth creates visible damage to the teeth and ages the user significantly, causing those who become addicted to it to appear much older than they are. Recovery from crystal meth addiction is possible, but it often requires professional help.
Because meth can take such a severe toll on the body, many individuals find they need extended care and treatment. Here at Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, we offer extensive treatment programs designed to meet the specific needs and goals of each person who comes to us for support. Our programs include:
- Residential care program: This inpatient program allows individuals to benefit from round-the-clock care as they work through their substance use disorder.
- Extended care program: Some individuals need a longer stay with us than the standard residential program and this provides that.
- Gender-specific programs: We offer programs designed exclusively for men or women, for those individuals who would heal better outside a coed setting.
- Intensive Outpatient Program: An IOP delivers condensed treatment around a person’s schedule allowing them to work and live at home.
- Sober Living Program: A transitionary program to help individuals get back on their feet after rehab.
The Arbor Behavioral Healthcare
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, now is the time to reach out for help. At Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals that understand addiction in all its forms. We use an integrative and holistic approach to treat addiction and mental health issues. No treatment is one-size-fits-all, and at The Arbor, you will have a team of experts prepared to create your customized treatment plan. We do so by offering comprehensive therapeutic care including:
- 12-Step immersion
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- EMDR therapy
- Equine-assisted therapy
- Family support groups
- Group therapy
- Nutrition therapy
We offer care for your mind, body, and spirit so that you can heal from the inside out and look forward to a lifetime of sobriety and wellness. If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, please call us at 844.413.2690.