Meth is a dangerous narcotic that millions of people abuse each year. It has an extreme rate of addiction and overdose and can be very damaging to the body. If you or a loved one is struggling with methamphetamines, you should be familiar with the facts about meth to support them when they are ready. Having this knowledge can help you understand what they are going through and what it takes to recover from this deadly drug.
The Ranch TN welcomes people from all walks of life who are struggling with a meth addiction and are ready for a positive change. Our meth addiction treatment program includes residential treatment, a partial hospitalization program (PHP), and an intensive outpatient program (IOP) to treat all aspects of the disease. You will participate in group and private therapy sessions where you will ease addiction withdrawals and cravings and learn to manage your symptoms and triggers more efficiently.
Understanding the Facts About Meth
Methamphetamines is a very addictive drug that can cause euphoria and a sense of well-being, along with other side effects, which include high body temperatures, seizures, and “meth mouth.” Meth mouth is characterized by severe dental decay and gum disease brought on by abusing meth.
Here are some facts about meth to help you understand why this drug is so dangerous:
What Is Meth?
Methamphetamine is a potent, synthetic stimulant that is highly addictive and has minimal medicinal purposes. It was originally created to treat ADHD and for short-term treatment of obesity, but the risk of addiction is too great. It is currently listed as a Schedule II drug by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Methamphetamines are made illegally and are often called tina, ice, and crystal meth.
What Does it Look Like?
Because meth is made in illegal drug labs around the country, it can look very different depending on the chemicals used. It may come as a crystalline powder or as rock-like chunks. The powdered form of meth is typically white, but it can be colored and appear yellow, brown, gray, orange, and pink.
How is Meth Abused?
You can ingest meth in several ways. It can be smoked, snorted, injected, or ingested orally. Injecting or smoking meth can produce an immediate response, while other methods may take longer to feel the effects. Generally, the effects of meth can last up to 24 hours.
What Are the Risks?
Abusing meth comes with several serious side effects, which include rapid heart rate, increased blood pressure, and can damage the small blood vessels in the brain. Other health complications include:
- Elevated body temperature
- Increased respiratory rate
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Tremors
If the abuse is allowed to continue, it can lead to cardiovascular disease, such as heart attack and stroke.
The Benefits of Treating Stimulants
There are many benefits of treating stimulant abuse when you enroll in an addiction treatment program. These programs can help you get through withdrawals and cravings safely and begin working on building new healthy habits that can stop the abuse once and for all.
Some of the benefits of treating stimulants include:
Reduces the Risk of Relapse and Overdose
Enrolling in a treatment program can safely reduce the effects of addiction withdrawals and cravings so you can focus on your recovery. They use medication to ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings as well as any depressive or anxiety symptoms fueling the abuse.
Improved Physical Health
As you participate in a treatment program, you will notice an improvement in your physical health. You give your body time to heal and reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, hypertension, and other illnesses. Plus, you will work on improving your health through nutrition and healthy eating. This is imperative for those who are malnourished due to them abusing meth.
Better Mental Health
Treatment programs use behavioral therapy to deal with the psychological aspect of the illness. This can ease anxiety and depressive symptoms, along with improved brain function and improved memory retention.
Stronger Relationships
One benefit of treating stimulant abuse is the relationships you will develop during the program. You will bond with peers in group therapy, where you will participate in group discussions, role-playing games, and other group activities to teach you healthy relationship habits. These relationships can help support you long after the treatment program ends and help keep you on your sober path.
Reduces Risk of Infectious Diseases
It is common for people who abuse meth to inject it directly into their veins. This can increase the risk of developing infectious diseases and put your health at risk. Participating in a meth treatment program can greatly reduce these risks and help improve your immune system and overall health.
Enroll in Meth Addiction Treatment Today at The Ranch Tennessee
If you are struggling with an addiction to meth, heroin, cocaine, or other toxic substances, The Ranch Tennessee can give you the support you need. Our goal is to create a comprehensive treatment program based on your unique symptoms and the severity of symptoms. We will develop a customizable program that includes medication-assisted treatment, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other beneficial therapies.
If you would like to learn more about our meth addiction treatment program, fill out our online contact form or call 1.844.876.7680 today to schedule a consultation and tour.