Amphetamine and its chemical cousin methamphetamine (crystal meth) are central nervous system stimulants that are extremely dangerous and highly addictive. While amphetamine abuse and addiction is often thought to be primarily a rural problem, these relatively inexpensive drugs are regularly turning up in urban environments and sending addicts to treatment in major cities.
According to a 2004 report by the US Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), amphetamines are becoming increasingly common in urban areas relative to other substances of abuse, as shown by the following:
- Amphetamines were either the primary, secondary or tertiary substance of abuse in 12 percent of admissions to publically funded treatment centers.
- Small metropolitan areas had the highest levels of amphetamine-related treatment at 34 percent.
Addicts seeking help in major urban areas are more likely to suffer from a primary addiction to alcohol, cocaine or opiates, but amphetamine abuse continues to rise.
Amphetamines are one of the most powerfully addictive substances a person can use. When first used, these drugs offer the following effects:
- Sustained energy with little to no need for sleep
- Reduced appetite
- The ability to focus attention for long periods of time
Amphetamines work on the same part of the brain that drives emotional response, anxiety management, impulse control and the formation of memory. When a person puts this chemical into their system, they effectively block any negative feelings from being experienced. This places individuals who suffer from the following emotional disorders at an increased risk for both amphetamine abuse and addiction:
- Borderline personality disorder
- Poor self-esteem
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Anxiety disorders
Over time as the addict’s tolerance for the drug increases, he or she will need larger and more frequent doses in order to feel the desired effects. Eventually no amount of the drug will satisfy cravings. This places the addict at risk for overdose. Long-term use of amphetamines can also cause irreversible brain damage and the destruction of the central nervous system.
Amphetamine Treatment in Inner Cities
Amphetamine addiction recovery usually requires inpatient, residential treatment that will last at least 30 days and may take up to a year or longer to complete. One of the advantages of being in an urban environment is that larger cities tend to have more options when it comes to treating serious addictions. The most effective recovery programs focus on all aspects of amphetamine addiction, including any co-occurring psychological disorders that are likely being medicated by the drug. Some of the most effective treatment tools include the following:
- Personal counseling and evaluation of all aspects of physical and mental health
- Medically supervised detoxification
- Education about addiction that empowers patients to invest in their own recovery
- Development of coping skill techniques for managing anxiety and cravings
- Positive self-esteem encouragement
- Preparation for life after rehab
Some people find that seeking treatment outside of their own hometown increases the likelihood of success. Many urban addicts, for instance, find excellent recovery results in remote treatment facilities while some rural addicts may benefit from the additional resources offered in cities.
Find Amphetamine Help Today
If you are addicted to amphetamine or methamphetamine and need help, please call our toll-free, 24 hour helpline. We can answer any questions you have and connect you with the best treatment programs available. Addiction affects everyone, from people in the inner city to those in the country. We can help. Call now.