Methamphetamine, more commonly known as meth, is one of the most addictive substances available today. While it can have legitimate medical uses, specifically to treat ADHD and obesity, it is more commonly used and abused as a street drug due to its capacity for intense highs.
Meth addiction comes with devastating physical and psychological effects. Unfortunately, despite plenty of information out there about the dangers of meth use and abuse, there continues to be misinformation. This is true not just about the drug, but the effects of the drug. It’s important to know the difference between myths and facts about addiction to methamphetamine, to provide the best possible care to those suffering from addiction.
Myth: Only Some People Get Addicted to Meth
Fact: This is completely, 100% false. Like any substance of abuse, meth addiction does not discriminate. It affects people from all walks of life, no matter their age, race, sex, or socioeconomic background. While it is true that some people may be more susceptible to addiction based on their genetic background or other environmental factors, no one is “addiction-proof.”
Not only is this myth false, it is also dangerous. The idea that only some people can get addicted to meth creates a false sense of security for those who may consider experimenting with the drug. If a person goes in thinking they can’t get addicted to meth, they may not worry about the possible consequences of their use.
Myth: Meth Addiction Is A Choice
Fact: No addiction of any kind is a choice. While the decision to use drugs initially may have been voluntary, addiction is not a choice by any means.
Addiction is a complex disease that affects the brain and, in turn, the rest of the body. The myth that addiction of any kind is a choice is not only ignorant, it is also dangerous.
Implying that addiction is a choice can result in a person suffering from addiction to feel embarrassed or ashamed of their struggles. This may ultimately discourage them from seeking proper help and treatment. Not only does this continue the cycle of addiction, but it can ultimately lead to death either by overdose or as a result of a major medical issue that developed as a result of their addiction.
Myth: It’s Impossible To Recover From Meth Addiction
Fact: As is the case with any substance of abuse, recovery from meth is possible with the right help. While meth addiction may be more difficult to treat than some other substance addictions, it can be done through a combination of medication-assisted treatment (MAT), behavioral therapy, and support groups.
Due to the intensity of treatment required, and both the severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms, the entire treatment process (including detox) may be most effective in a residential treatment center. Residential, or inpatient treatment can provide a stable and safe environment where individuals can focus on recovery without the temptations and triggers of the outside world.
Myth: Certain Types of Meth are Safer
Fact: While meth does come in different forms and can have legitimate medical uses, no form of meth is “safer” than another. While crystal meth may be considered the purest and most potent form of meth, it is just as addictive and potentially dangerous as other forms.
Myth: Mess Is Less Harmful Than Other Illicit Drugs
Fact: On that note, since methamphetamine does have a legitimate medical use, people may also be under the impression that meth is less harmful than other types of illicit drugs. Simply put, that is not the case.
Long-term meth use can lead to serious health issues, including heart problems, severe dental decay (“meth mouth”), malnutrition, and irreversible brain damage. Meth also significantly increases the risk of stroke, seizures, and fatal overdoses. Meth can also cause mental health effects such as severe anxiety, depression, and long-term psychosis.
Myth: Meth Helps You Concentrate
Fact: While short-term meth use may, in fact, help you concentrate, long term it can actually have the opposite effect.
Since methamphetamine is a stimulant and can be prescribed as medication, many people believe that taking it will enhance their concentration and focus. While short-term taking meth may increase alertness and energy, it does so at a cost.
In fact, prolonged meth use can lead to long-term cognitive impairment, including memory loss, difficulty focusing, and decreased problem-solving abilities. Additionally, chronic meth use can damage the brain’s dopamine receptors, making it difficult for users to experience pleasure naturally and impairing cognitive function over time.
Myth: Meth Highs Last For Days
Fact: While a meth high can last a long time, especially compared to many other drugs, to say it lasts for days is a stretch.
A meth high typically lasts between 6 and 12 hours, depending on the dose and method of use. Where the misconception comes into play is when someone goes on a meth bender that lasts for days, also known as a “binge and crash.” When this happens, the person may repeatedly use meth over several days without sleep, thus giving off the impression that the high has lasted that entire time off one single dose. In reality, they were constantly having to re-dose in order to keep it going.
Myth: Meth Makes You More Social
Fact: Many people assume that drinking or using drugs will allow them to relax and become more social. While at first taking meth may make a person more energetic and confident, meth actually has the opposite effect over time.
Chronic meth use can lead to paranoia, hallucinations, and erratic behavior. This can actually drive a person to isolation. Many meth users become increasingly isolated as their addiction deepens, damaging relationships and leading to social withdrawal. Over time, meth use can contribute to extreme distrust of others and even psychotic episodes that make meaningful social interaction nearly impossible.
Myth: You Can Get Addicted to Meth the First Use
Fact: It’s important to note here that doing meth one time does not automatically mean that a person will develop a full-blown addiction.
That being said, meth is a highly addictive substance due to the powerful high it produces. While you may not develop an addiction after doing meth for the first time, you may enjoy it so much that you want to do it again. This can start the cycle of dependency and addiction.
In fact, meth addiction can develop very quickly compared to other drugs. This is due to the way meth can alter brain chemistry and reduce the brain’s ability to produce dopamine naturally. A person may find themselves craving meth constantly and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they are not using.
Myth: Meth Withdrawal is No Big Deal
Fact: Meth withdrawal is often severe and, when not addressed properly, can often lead to relapse. The intense experience it produces can lead to both physical and psychological cravings.
Some common symptoms of meth withdrawal include:
- Intense cravings
- Extreme fatigue
- Depression and anxiety
- Increased appetite
- Irritability and mood swings
- Psychotic symptoms such as paranoia or hallucinations
Because of the severity of these withdrawal symptoms, it’s advised that anyone going through meth detox should do so under the care and supervision of medical professionals as part of a medical detox program. After detox, as part of a larger medication-assisted treatment program can help alleviate symptoms and promote long-term sobriety. During both detox and MAT, medications can be administered to cut down on cravings as well as address some of the withdrawal symptoms, either treating them or alleviating them.
Myth: Quitting Meth Cold Turkey Is Safe and Effective
Fact: Quitting meth “cold turkey” with no medical assistance is no easy task. Not only is the risk of relapse greater in those attempting to quit on their own, but doing so can also be dangerous. This is partly due to the more severe and extreme withdrawal symptoms that can possibly arise, such as psychotic episodes, severe depression, and suicidal thoughts.
This is why, when the decision has been made to quit, the detox and withdrawal process be done under the care and supervision of trained medical professionals. They can respond to dangerous situations that may arise and can provide help that is immediately effective. This can be done at a local medical facility, a dedicated detox center, or a treatment center that also offers medical detox services, such as Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery.
Learn More About Myths About Meth and Heal From Meth Addiction at Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery
If you or a loved one is struggling with meth addiction, know that help is available. Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery offers comprehensive treatment programs designed to support individuals on their journey to sobriety. Understanding the facts about meth and seeking professional help can make all the difference in breaking free from addiction.
Contact us today to learn more about treatment options and how to take the first step toward recovery.
Clinical Director
Kendall Maloof is the clinical director at Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist and has held multiple leadership roles before settling here at Eagle Creek. Kendall received her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2016. Her career in mental and behavioral health began in 2014 when she took up internships in both the nonprofit and for profit sectors. She interned at multiple reputable companies, such as The Living Success Center and 449 Recovery in California.
In 2019, Kendall became the clinical director of Sunsets Recovery for Woman, a dual diagnosis program in southern California. Kendall is a natural leader. She has an incredible ability to problem solve and stay calm in any situation. Kendall never fails to show up when she is needed, and her calm demeanor makes her team and clients feel at ease. Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery is proud to have Kendall as our clinical director.
