Methamphetamines are a dangerous narcotic that was initially created to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) but is now a widely abused drug. It is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system, increasing alertness and energy levels while suppressing appetite and inducing feelings of pleasure.
Zelus Recovery is a full-service addiction treatment center that supports teens and adults in Idaho who have developed an addiction to meth, cocaine, heroin, or other substances. Our programs use a combination of behavioral and holistic therapies, along with medical support, to create a whole-person recovery experience.
If you would like to schedule a tour of our meth rehab in Idaho, call 208.518.0797 today to speak with our compassionate team.
The Dangers of Meth Abuse
Methamphetamines, or meth for short, is a central nervous system stimulant that causes an intense euphoric response that is extremely addicting. The meth high can last as much as 12 hours, and if you continue to take more during that time, it can cause physical dependence and psychological cravings, aka addiction.
The long-lasting effects of meth are what makes this drug so dangerous. If you use more before your body has a chance to cleanse itself from the toxins, your body will begin to develop a physical dependence on meth, which will cause painful and long-lasting withdrawals if you don’t continue to take more.
Symptoms of Meth Withdrawal
Meth withdrawal symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Dehydration
- Chills
- Insomnia/hypersomnia
- Dysphoria
- Cognitive decline
- Psychosis
- Suicidal thoughts
- Increased appetite
In addition to the above withdrawal symptoms, meth will cause psychological cravings that push people to continue the abuse. They can become overwhelmed with thoughts of using more meth that won’t stop until they give in or wait 3-5 days for the drug to fully leave their system. This is why quitting meth can be dangerous. If a person relapses and takes more than they are used to as a knee–jerk reaction to their cravings, it can lead to an overdose and potentially death.
At Zelus Recovery, we welcome anyone who is struggling with an addiction to meth and wants help in stopping the abuse before it is too late. Our programs are tailored to the individual and based on the severity of their symptoms, length of abuse, and their current physical and mental health.
Recognizing the Common Meth Side Effects
If you know someone who is abusing meth, they may try to hide their abuse from you. There are several side effects that point to a serious addiction and can cause several health complications.
Short-term meth side effects include:
- Increase attention and alertness
- Increase activity and wakefulness
- Decreased appetite
- An intense euphoria
- Increased respiration
- Irregular heartbeat
- Increased blood pressure
- Hyperthermia
Long-term meth side effects include:
- Psychosis
- Permanent brain damage
- Memory loss
- Trouble concentrating for long periods
- Aggressive or violent behaviors
- Frequent and sudden mood changes
- Severe dental problems
- Weight loss
- Malnutrition
While there is no cure for addiction, there are several treatment options that help people break their addiction safely while learning new skills that promote long-lasting sobriety. The safest way to stop abusing meth is by enrolling in an accredited addiction treatment program.
Start Treatment at Zelus Recovery’s Meth Rehab in Idaho
At Zelus Recovery, we take a holistic approach to addiction treatment that heals the mind, body, and spirit. We welcome Idaho residents who struggle with meth abuse and are ready to make a positive change in their lives. Our programs include a wide range of therapy options, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, co-occurring disorders treatment, and relapse prevention therapy.
If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to meth, today is the day to make a healthy change. Call 208.518.0797 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and meet our dedicated team.
