What Is Methamphetamine?

Methamphetamine is a psychostimulant drug. This means it can cause a changed perception of the world (including hallucinations), and it’s a stimulant or “upper.” Stimulant addiction can be particularly powerful for individuals with mental health conditions like depression.

Meth is called many different names. According to Meth Rehab Centers, a few of the most common street names for methamphetamine include:

  • Glass
  • Crissy
  • Cristy
  • Speed
  • Ice
  • Crystal
  • Shards
  • Cran
  • Tweak
  • Tina
  • Chalk
  • Redneck Cocaine
  • Whizz

Methamphetamine comes in two forms, powder and rock. When it’s in powder form, it’s inhaled through the nose. When it’s in rock form, it’s usually smoked. This substance was first created from a parent drug called amphetamine and was used for nasal decongestion. Today, it’s one of the most addictive and dangerous drugs available.

If you or a loved one is struggling with methamphetamine addiction, know that you’re not alone in this battle. Our specialized meth rehab in Phoenix, AZ, is here to provide a supportive environment, coupled with essential resources and care tailored to overcoming the challenges associated with methamphetamine addiction.

We are committed to facilitating a recovery process that is as comprehensive as it is compassionate, ensuring that each individual is empowered to reclaim their life from the grip of addiction. Choose recovery, and allow our experienced team at Camelback Recovery in Arizona to guide you or your loved one through a transformative journey toward sobriety and well-being.

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Why Is Meth Addictive?

Around 2.6 million people reported using meth in 2020. Of those, approximately 1.5 million reported addiction to their meth use. Arizona’s historical data shows a serious problem, with no less than 700 individuals being admitted to state-funded addiction treatment centers every year since the late 1990s. Additionally, employers report thousands of meth-positive drug tests of their employees each year. But why is methamphetamine so addictive?

Meth releases large amounts of dopamine when used. Many people use meth as one of their coping strategies for dealing with co-occurring problems. Since dopamine makes you feel happy (or even euphoric), people who struggle with mental health could use it to “feel normal.” Meth is also often used alongside other addictions, like alcohol use disorder.

The first few times someone uses meth, it’s of their own free will. Eventually, however, the brain craves the euphoric sensation the drug gives them and use becomes involuntary. This means a person will crave meth and take larger doses to achieve the initial high they received. Unfortunately, since the body builds a tolerance to meth and other substances, that initial high isn’t possible, and larger quantities place you at risk of overdosing.

The wiring in the brain changes to eventually depend on methamphetamine. Our treatment center can still help those who battle involuntary meth usage. However, it can take several years of substance abuse treatment and sobriety for a person to feel normal after reaching this point. With personalized treatment, treating stimulant addiction is possible.

Signs and Symptoms of Meth Addiction

Addiction treatment can’t begin until a person recognizes they have a problem. Meth abuse symptoms can vary based on whether there is a co-occurring disorder, such as a mental health issue or other substance abuse. However, a few of the most common signs and symptoms to watch for include:

  • Anxiety or paranoia

  • Bad breath
  • Craving methamphetamine or the associated euphoric feeling
  • Depression
  • Hallucinations (which can be visual, auditory or olfactory)
  • Dilated pupils
  • Irregular breathing patterns
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities you once enjoyed
  • Low appetite
  • Little or no motivation
  • Memory problems
  • Premature aging of the skin (including wrinkles and sagging skin)
  • Restlessness or an inability to sit still
  • Rotting teeth
  • Sudden weight loss without other cause
  • Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
  • Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep
A supportive group therapy session, where individuals are collectively navigating the pathways to recovery from methamphetamine addiction

Treatment for Meth Addiction 

Drug rehab is the best option for meth addiction because it’s notoriously hard to get sober alone. An intensive inpatient drug rehab program, beginning with drug detoxification, is recommended as a starting treatment for all substance abuse issues.

Detoxing is a crucial part of meth treatment in which the person allows all of the substance to leave their system. With time, rest and fluids, all traces of meth will eventually leave the system. However, some will need medication-assisted treatment to help them withdraw safely. During this time, meth withdrawal symptoms will be at their worst. Another reason to use inpatient treatment is that it allows you the support necessary to become sober during an extremely difficult withdrawal process.

Withdrawal symptoms are different for everyone but may include:

  • Feeling fatigued or excessively sleepy
  • Episodes of jitteriness
  • Increased appetite, with or without dry mouth
  • Extreme meth cravings
  • Paranoia, delusions or hallucinations
  • Depression, with or without thoughts of suicide
  • Agitation, irritation or feelings of anger
  • Excessive sweating (including cold sweats)
  • Red, itchy eyes
  • Nausea and severe stomachache, with or without vomiting

An addiction specialist will work with you to find the best ways to cope with your withdrawal symptoms. Calming activities like yoga or meditation may be helpful alongside medical interventions.

Treatment Options After Detox

Our meth rehab in Phoenix, AZ, creates a personalized substance use disorder treatment program for every patient. Once you’ve completed detox, an inpatient stay at our meth addiction treatment facility is usually recommended. You’ll be given behavioral therapies, holistic programs and a treatment plan for any co-occurring disorders during this time.

Rehab in Arizona is done in a comfortable, stress-free environment that allows you to focus on your recovery journey exclusively. Medical professionals design our treatment programs to treat the body, mind and spirit so you have the greatest chance of permanently overcoming substance use disorders.

Once you’ve completed an intensive treatment inpatient program, you may continue receiving individual therapy or group sessions in an outpatient setting.

Recovering from drug abuse is difficult, but our comprehensive services at Camelback Recovery, the leading mental health and addiction treatment center in Phoenix, provide the support network necessary to achieve long-term sobriety and prevent relapses.