While many people understand that methamphetamine (meth) is both a highly addictive and dangerous substance, oftentimes many are not entirely aware of its full effects. The consequences of using meth extend farther than tooth decay and skin sores. Knowing more about how meth affects your body (both short-term and long-term) is incredibly important for sobriety. Being unaware of these factors could make trying or continuing to use this substance more probable along your journey.
Due to its popularity amongst actors, musicians, and other sought-after celebrities, meth became increasingly popular throughout America over the years. The severe lack of research and information available regarding the negative effects of meth made people more apt to try the substance. While more information has come out regarding the dangers of this drug, addiction to meth is still very much a problem in the United States.
How it Began
Methamphetamine was created in the early 20th century from its originator, amphetamine. Similar to amphetamine (Adderall), meth causes one to experience more activity and talkativeness, decreased appetite, and a strong feeling of euphoria, but on a much more intense level. These substances were originally used in nasal decongestants and bronchial inhalers.
While amphetamine and methamphetamine are very similar, that does not mean that meth is any less dangerous. In fact, meth is more dangerous because more of the drug enters the brain than amphetamines do. This makes meth more potent in comparison. Along with its potency, meth also has long-term, life-threatening effects on users.
It is worth noting that its originator, amphetamine, is still used today for prescriptions such as Adderall, in order to treat conditions like ADHD. Amphetamines are still extremely addictive as well. The body is typically able to develop a tolerance to the substance, thus creating a need for more in order to get the desired effects. Not only can this lead to potential addiction, but it could also lead to an overdose if not monitored properly.
Meth Affects Your Mind and Body
Understanding the full effects of meth is very important to avoid potential addiction. For example, even in small doses, meth can be very powerful. Without being aware of that fact, meth could be viewed as relatively harmless. Both short-term and long-term use of meth has many concerning effects on the body. The short-term effects of meth include:
- increased attention and decreased fatigue
- increased activity and wakefulness
- decreased appetite
- euphoria and rush
- increased respiration
- rapid/irregular heartbeat
- Hyperthermia
When only observing the short-term effects, one could understand why people would assume the consequences of using meth would be rather low. The short-term, immediate effects that meth gives seem potentially beneficial for some, but in reality, they cause much more problems.
The long-term effects of meth can include the following:
- addiction
- psychosis, including:
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- paranoia
- hallucinations
- repetitive motor activity
- changes in brain structure and function
- deficits in thinking and motor skills
- increased distractibility
- memory loss
- aggressive or violent behavior
- mood disturbances
- severe dental problems
- weight loss
While it may be commonly known or acknowledged that meth is a highly dangerous, addictive substance, many do not realize the lasting effects it can have on the human body. Other than the changes it causes to your appearance, it also causes lasting neurological changes in your brain. Not to mention the potential it has to cause you to lose any financial security you once had before the addiction. We forget how serious having an addiction to this particular substance really is. It is important to remember the severity of the effects that this drug produces.
Seeking Help
Even though addiction to this substance should be taken very seriously, this does not mean that all hope is lost. Choosing recovery is always an option no matter who you are or what stage of life you are in. When finding help for yourself or a loved one, know that you have many options. Contact your local treatment facilities, or even treatment facilities across the country, to find out how they can offer help with meth addictions. Some well-known treatment modalities that have been reported to help break free from addiction include (but art not limited to) behavioral therapy, interventions, family education, individual counseling, and encouragement to participate in non-drug-related activities. Ensuring that you are choosing a treatment center that fits your specific needs when deciding to pursue a life in recovery is so important. Trusting that the care you are receiving is helpful, valuable, and long-lasting is vital for your recovery process.
Thankfully a lot more information regarding the effects of meth use has come out throughout the years. However, meth addictions are still a huge problem not just within the United States, but globally as well. Beginning in the 1950s from amphetamines, meth was created to help with nasal congestion, then started gaining popularity for recreational use. Some of its short-term effects include euphoria, increased attention and activity, and decreased fatigue. A few of its long-term effects include memory loss, aggressive or violent behavior, and changes in brain structure/function. While the effects of this substance are very serious, it is never too late to seek out help. There are many helpful options available for you to try. At Rickard Elmore Treatment Strategies we offer interventions, transformational recovery coaching, psychedelic support and planning, and more. We want to ensure that you will find the treatment modality you need at our facility in Newport Beach, California. Even though such as meth can be difficult to overcome, we are here to help you along the way. Call us today at (877) 387-7197 to begin your journey.