Methamphetamine is the official name for the drug “Meth,” also known as “Crystal Meth.” It is an extremely addictive and dangerous drug. In 2020, U.S. News & World Report published an article stating that Meth use was on the rise in America, with nearly 1 million Americans using the drug. Meth is a drug that has a very intense high, but it’s not very long-lasting. This leaves users chasing that feeling and thus using more of the drug and becoming addicted. Meth has some extremely dangerous consequences to the body and, in some cases, can be deadly. The CDC reported in December 2020 that overdose deaths have been accelerating during the COVID-19 pandemic. They report that deaths from psychostimulants like Meth increased by 34.8% when looking at data from May 2019 through May 2020. Fortunately, with proper treatment, Meth users can get the help they need to break their addiction. Methamphetamine addiction treatment depends on the person and can include intensive outpatient rehab, various types of therapy, working with counselors, and more. At The Bridges of San Diego, we have helped many people overcome their Meth addiction. Don’t give up hope. Help is out there for you!
What is Meth?
Meth is a drug that has been around for over a century. It was created back in 1919 by a Japanese chemist. By the end of World War II, nearly 20% of people living in Japan were addicted to the drug. Often it was given to people in professions like pilots or factory workers to help them stay alert and awake for long periods of time. When on a Meth trip, it is possible to stay awake for 72 hours without sleep. The drug can be snorted, smoked, or injected. It is so addictive and powerful because it increases the amount of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is often called the “feel good” neurotransmitter because it is associated with how we feel pleasure and rewards.
The Effect of Meth on the Body
The scary part about Meth is that someone can become addicted after just trying it once. Often what is just a simple experiment can turn into a life-altering addiction. Meth has many adverse effects on the body including the following:
Extreme weight loss
Facial sores
Irregular heartbeat
Hyperthermia
Neurological effects (changes in brain structure)
Rotting teeth
Memory loss
Anxiety
Confusion
Violent behavior
Psychosis
It can be challenging to watch a family member or friend go through a Meth addiction as the side effects are very damaging to the body. In some cases, an overdose can occur and the person may die. Before playing out the worst-case scenario in your head, understand that you, your family member, or your friend can get help! Many people have fought hard and battled their Meth addiction to come out on the other side, clean and sober.
Getting Help
One of the best ways to become clean and free from a Meth addiction is to go to a treatment center and work with professionals. The Bridges of San Diego is an Intensive Outpatient Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center. We have worked with thousands of patients to help them recover from their addictions. Starting a treatment regimen can help patients to feel hopeful even when things seem discouraging.
Intensive Outpatient Program
Our Intensive Outpatient Program is designed for patients transitioning out of a Residential Treatment Program or those who can’t afford to take the time for a Residential Treatment Program. With this program, patients receive the treatment they need while still being able to live at home and go to work. Typically, patients will visit the treatment center three times a week, day or night, for a total of 6 weeks. Our therapists will work with both the patient and their families to help provide the support and tools for overcoming the addiction. All of our treatment plans are evidence based, meaning they have proven to be effective.
Partial Hospitalization Program
Another treatment option is the Partial Hospitalization Program, which is a short-term intensive clinical treatment. During this program, patients live at home and receive treatment at the center five days or nights each week.
In all of our programs, patients work with therapists in both a one-on-one and group setting. Sometimes it is beneficial and healing to speak with others who are fighting similar battles. At The Bridges of San Diego, we sincerely care for each of our patients. Our treatment plans are more than just a checklist of steps. We aim to create compassionate connections with patients to help them through their journey.
Methamphetamine Addiction Treatment
Going through a Methamphetamine Addiction Treatment Program is never an easy process, but it is so worth it. Becoming clean and sober from Meth can drastically improve your health, relationships, and self-perspective. No longer do you need to be tied down by the chains of addiction. There is a way out. There is an answer. It begins with having the courage to seek out treatment for yourself or a loved one. At The Bridges of San Diego’s Intensive Outpatient Program, patients will quickly see that many others fight the same addiction battles. This sense of togetherness and understanding is an integral part of the healing process. Through intensive work with therapists and counselors, it is possible to come out on the other side of addiction. The Bridges of San Diego is here to support you every step of the way. We work with many insurance providers to make sure that expenses aren’t getting in the way of your treatment. For more information about our programs, contact us today.