Meth is an incredibly destructive and addictive drug that is produced illegally in homemade labs. The reason it is so harmful to the body is it is made from a number of toxic chemicals – everyday items found around the house; battery acid, antifreeze, engine starter fluid, and cleaning products.
While opioids, heroin, and fentanyl still dominate headlines, meth is making a major comeback. The need for meth rehab in Kentucky is on the rise, as this powerful drug is destroying lives. According to the Kentucky Injury Prevention and Research Center, meth-related deaths more than tripled from 2013 to 2016. A total of 252 people died.
Similar to other stimulant drugs, meth releases dopamine into the pleasure center of the brain, creating a sense of euphoria and extreme high for the user. Over time, once a tolerance builds and that same high can’t be attained, the user needs more and more of the drug. Many people are drawn to meth for the long-lasting euphoric effects and increased energy levels. In addition, some are attracted to the fact that regular use reduces appetite, which leads to weight loss. A person on meth can feel invincible and ready to take on the world. Sex drives also increase, which can lead to risky behavior and potential for sexually transmitted diseases.
If you or a loved one is seeking meth rehab in Kentucky, contact us today.
How Meth Affects the Body
Some of the physical and mental effects include:
- Meth is hard on teeth and gums. Tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss occurs (often referred to as “meth mouth”)
- Feeling delusional and paranoid
- Risky sexual behavior
- Impulsiveness/reckless behavior
- Poor memory and cognitive skills
Signs Someone You Love Is Abusing Meth
When someone is abusing meth, there are clear signs that indicate they need meth rehab. Some of these signs include:
- Personal appearance/grooming becomes increasingly worse/neglected
- Obsessively picking at hair or skin
- Dramatic weight loss and loss of appetite
- Dilated pupils and rapid eye movement
- Extreme sleep patterns. Some users will stay up for days or weeks binging
- Physical reactions such as twitching, or facial tics, exaggerated mannerisms
- Constant chatter
- Suddenly needing to borrow money or sell possessions
- Angry outbursts or psychotic behavior (paranoia, hallucinations)
Attempting to quit meth alone can be difficult. Getting help at JourneyPure Bowling Green is a way to ensure you are surrounded by a supportive, knowledgeable and professional staff that understands addiction. We arrange offsite detox for each patient that includes 24-hour care. Withdrawal symptoms are uncomfortable but are more manageable under medical supervision.
Stages of Meth Withdrawal
Here is a typical synopsis of the withdrawal symptoms brought on by meth and the timeline for stabilization:
- The first 24 to 72 hours: It is very natural to during this period to feel completely exhausted and experience some depression. Also during this early stage, individuals may experience feelings of panic or anxiety and may have hallucinations. Medically trained professionals can help you with the right treatments to make these symptoms as bearable as possible.
- First full week: Cravings for meth will intensify and it will take an immense amount of drive and willpower to ignore these cravings. Agitation, irritability, anger and hopelessness – these are the feelings the user will experience during the first week of. Meth withdrawal. These feelings are often accompanied by muscle aches and pains, trouble sleeping and headaches. appetite will come back and you’ll begin to regain some of the weight that you lost.
- Week 2: Cravings may still exist, and mood swings are still possible.
- Week 3 to 4: This is the home stretch. Finally, energy begins to return, sleep becomes more normalized and overall mood improves.
Getting Help At JourneyPure Bowling Green Meth Rehab In Kentucky
Once the drug leaves the system through detox, meth rehab begins with our staff creating a plan to heal the mind, body, and spirit – a plan specific to each patient’s needs. Each will undergo a medical and mental evaluation to determine the best approach. We offer behavioral therapies as well as experiential therapies, like equine, songwriting, art and yoga. We educate our patients about good nutrition and proper sleep. This holistic approach to treatment leaves our patients feeling rejuvenated and ready for long-term recovery. Contact us to live your best life, starting today.